Improving physical therapy adherence for knee osteoarthritis using gamification and health coaching
Official title: A remotely - applied behaviorally- designed intervention incorporating gamification, social incentives, and health coaching to improve durability of physical therapy for knee osteoarthritis (ReAKTIV)
Funded at Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-10992320 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a fun and supportive way to help people with knee osteoarthritis stick to their home exercise routines by using games, social encouragement, and health coaching through a smartphone app, so they can feel better and stay active for longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Philadelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01RX004770-01A2 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992320 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly veterans, who are experiencing symptoms of knee osteoarthritis and are seeking effective management strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe knee osteoarthritis requiring surgical intervention or those unable to engage in physical activity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of physical therapy for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by using a remote intervention that combines gamification, social incentives, and health coaching. The approach aims to increase patient adherence to home exercise programs and promote overall physical activity, which are crucial for long-term symptom management. By leveraging technology, such as smartphone applications and activity monitors, the study seeks to provide ongoing support and motivation to patients. The goal is to help patients maintain the benefits gained from physical therapy over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved long-term management of knee osteoarthritis symptoms and enhanced quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using technology and behavioral interventions to improve adherence to exercise programs, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Philadelphia VA Medical Center
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Joshua F. — Philadelphia VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Baker, Joshua F.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Aims to map inflammation across the body and brain in people with knee osteoarthritis using advanced imaging to help explain and improve pain and treatment.
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Determinants of rapid knee osteoarthritis progression using radiograph features
A patient-friendly look at how knees with osteoarthritis may progress more quickly, using advanced X-ray measurements to identify who is at higher risk.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.