Mobile Apps Helpful in Rheumatoid Arthritis Self-Care and Symptom Management

MOBILE apps are proving to be a promising ally in managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as demonstrated by the AEGORA trial. The study, which tested the effectiveness of an app-based self-management program, highlights how smartphone tools can provide valuable insights into disease monitoring and support patients without causing psychological harm.

The 16-week trial involved 122 individuals with RA who were assigned to either usual care or one of two app-based interventions. These apps combined education, goal-setting, and remote monitoring of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Impact of Disease (RAID) instrument. Monitoring frequency varied between weekly and monthly. Researchers sought to determine whether the app could enhance patients’ self-efficacy, with secondary outcomes exploring pain catastrophising, physical activity, sleep quality, and symptom tracking.

While the app did not significantly outperform usual care in improving self-efficacy scores (β: 0.44, p= 0.87), it offered other benefits. The intervention was found to be non-inferior in terms of pain catastrophizing, alleviating concerns about potential psychological risks associated with remote monitoring. Additionally, the RAID scores helped identify episodes of worsening symptoms, with 35% of app users reporting clinically significant changes—critical data that can guide timely interventions.

Though app retention declined to 43% by the study’s end, the trial demonstrated that apps can serve as a meaningful tool for monitoring symptoms and empowering patients in their care journey. By integrating technology into RA management, mobile apps provide a window into real-time disease progression, helping patients and clinicians make informed decisions.

This trial shows the potential of mobile apps to complement traditional care by offering innovative ways to monitor and manage chronic conditions like RA. With refinements in engagement strategies, such tools could transform the future of personalised healthcare.

Reference

Doumen M et al. A mobile app to support self-management and remotely monitor disease impact in rheumatoid arthritis: the randomised controlled AEGORA trial. Rheumatol. 2024;DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keae638.