A novel web-support intervention to promote recovery following Anterior Cruciate Ligament reconstruction: A pilot randomised controlled trial. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Levinger, Pazit; Hallam, Karen; Fraser, Darren; Pile, Rebecca; Ardern, Clare; Moreira, Brett; Talbot, Simon
• Is Part Of: Physical therapy in sport. Volume 27(2017)
• Page Start: 29
• Page End: 37
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: Anterior Cruciate Ligament reconstruction -- Internet -- Website -- Intervention; Sports physical therapy -- Periodicals; Sports injuries -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- diagnosis -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- therapy -- Periodicals; Physical Therapy -- Periodicals; Sports Medicine -- Periodicals; 615.82088796
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2017.06.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-853X

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Self-efficacy is positively associated with adherence behaviours and rehabilitation outcomes following Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction. An internet resource can be an effective way to provide information, goal setting, patient monitoring and hence support overall self-management. Purpose: This study examined the feasibility of a three month 'internet-based intervention' (mobile-oriented site) to enhance recovery for patients following ACL reconstruction. The potential effect of the internet-based intervention on knee pain, function, self-efficacy and fear of pain were also assessed. Method: This was a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) with pre and post intervention design (assessments at one week and three months following ACL reconstruction) comparing: (1) a control group and (2) an intervention group (internet-based intervention). A set of qualitative and quantitative assessments were included to evaluate potential improvements in self-efficacy, pain and function and perception of the internet intervention. Results and conclusion: Seventeen participants were available for analysis (n = 10 intervention and n = 7 control group). Participants reported the internet-based intervention to be a useful tool for information, reminder and reinforcement for performing their exercise rehabilitation with 30.3% (±35.3%) adherence to the internet-based intervention. No differences were observed between the groups over time on the outcome questionnaires (p > 0.05). Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12616001379404. Highlights: The internet based intervention is a useful tool for reminder and reinforcement. The internet based-intervention was an important motivator for exercise adherence. Physiotherapists were considered to be important motivators and supporters. No differences were observed between the groups on patients reported outcomes. The use of dialogue support and improve device compatibility may enhance usage.