Author:

Keywords:

Science & Technology, Physical Sciences, Technology, Chemistry, Analytical, Engineering, Electrical & Electronic, Instruments & Instrumentation, Chemistry, Engineering, app development, usability, osteoarthritis, blended care, interaction design, Functional Status, Humans, Mobile Applications, Osteoarthritis, Hip, Osteoarthritis, Knee, Surveys and Questionnaires, 0301 Analytical Chemistry, 0805 Distributed Computing, 0906 Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, 4008 Electrical engineering, 4009 Electronics, sensors and digital hardware, 4606 Distributed computing and systems software

Abstract:

(1) Background: Joint loading is an important parameter in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). However, calculating joint loading relies on the performance of an extensive biomechanical analysis, which is not possible to do in a free-living situation. We propose the concept and design of a novel blended-care app called JOLO (Joint Load) that combines free-living information on activity with lab-based measures of joint loading in order to estimate a subject's functional status. (2) Method: We used an iterative design process to evaluate the usability of the JOLO app through questionnaires. The user interfaces that resulted from the iterations are described and provide a concept for feedback on functional status. (3) Results: In total, 44 people (20 people with OA and 24 health-care providers) participated in the testing of the JOLO app. OA patients rated the latest version of the JOLO app as moderately useful. Therapists were predominantly positive; however, their intention to use JOLO was low due to technological issues. (4) Conclusion: We can conclude that JOLO is promising, but further technological improvements concerning activity recognition, the development of personalized joint loading predictions and a more comfortable means to carry the device are needed to facilitate its integration as a blended-care program.