Using video to monitor rheumatoid arthritis in telehealth
Official title: Video Disease Activity Index: A novel video measure to monitor rheumatoid arthritis in telehealth
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-10989145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help doctors check how rheumatoid arthritis is affecting your joints during video calls, using regular cameras on your phone or computer to see how well you can move and if there’s any swelling, so they can better adjust your treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $202,312 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AR083058-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and are receiving treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who are not engaged in telehealth or do not have access to the necessary technology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method for monitoring rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through video technology during telehealth visits. It aims to enhance the accuracy of disease activity assessments by utilizing standard cameras on laptops and smartphones to evaluate joint range of motion and swelling. By developing a web-based system that employs computer vision, the project seeks to provide rheumatologists with better tools for adjusting treatment based on real-time patient data. This approach is particularly relevant in the context of increased telemedicine use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate monitoring and treatment adjustments for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, improving their overall health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using technology for remote monitoring of chronic conditions, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Howe, Robert D — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Howe, Robert D
Related research
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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.