Year: 2025 | Month: July-September | Volume: 10 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 236-241
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijshr.20250324
Interactive Web-Based Education for Musculoskeletal Pain: A Non-Randomized 2-Arm Pre-Post Study on Engagement and Health Outcomes
Simran Banger1, Dr. Smati Sambyal (PT)2, Dr. Sandeep Kumar (PT)3, Kanchan Goyal4, Manisha Syal5, Mohit Kumar6
1BPT Intern, University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
2Associate Professor, University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
3Associate Professor, University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
4MPT 2nd year Student, University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
5University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
6MPT 2nd year Student, University College of Physiotherapy, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot.
Corresponding Author: Kanchan Goyal
ABSTRACT
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders such as back, knee, and neck pain are highly prevalent and often linked to poor posture. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in alleviating symptoms, but adherence to home exercise programs is often poor, limiting long-term benefits. Digital platforms may offer a more effective alternative by improving accessibility and engagement, yet evidence comparing them with conventional home-based exercise remains limited.
Aim: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of an interactive web-based exercise education platform with a traditional home-based program in improving pain, exercise adherence, and quality of life among individuals with musculoskeletal conditions.
Method: A 4-week non-randomized two-arm study was conducted with 60 adults (18–65 years) experiencing back, neck, or knee pain. Participants were allocated to a web-based interactive program (Group A, n=30) or a home-based program (Group B, n=30). Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), quality of life with the SF-12 (Physical and Mental Components), and adherence with the Exercise Adherence Rating Scale (EARS).
Results: Group A showed greater improvements: pain reduced from 4.90 to 1.56, PCS improved from 39.34 to 46.83, MCS from 38.50 to 47.71, and adherence was higher (EARS: 16.43 vs. 14.93).
Conclusion: A brief interactive web-based program significantly improved adherence, reduced pain, and enhanced quality of life compared to home-based exercise.
Plain Language Summary
Musculoskeletal pain, including back, neck, and knee pain, is very common and affects daily life for millions of people. Physiotherapy exercises can reduce pain and improve quality of life, but many people find it difficult to follow home-based exercise programs regularly. Digital platforms may provide a better solution by offering clear instructions, videos, reminders, and flexible access. This study aimed to test whether an interactive web-based program would be more effective than traditional home-based exercises. A total of 60 adults aged 18 to 65 years with musculoskeletal pain were included. They were divided into two groups: one group of 30 people used the web-based platform with exercise videos, progress tracking, and reminders, while the other group of 30 people followed the same program at home using written instructions. Both groups performed the exercises for four weeks. At the beginning and end of the program, pain, quality of life, and exercise adherence were measured. The results showed that the people using the web-based program experienced greater improvements. Their pain decreased from about 5 out of 10 to around 1.5 out of 10, and both physical and mental quality of life scores increased. They also followed their exercise plan more consistently compared to those in the home-exercise group. These findings suggest that interactive digital physiotherapy can make treatment easier to access, more engaging, and more effective. Such web-based tools could be especially helpful for people who live in rural areas or those who cannot attend regular clinic visits.
Keywords: Digital health, Musculoskeletal disorder, Patient engagement, Quality of life, Web-based physiotherapy