Digital Behavioral Therapy Improves Outcome in Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis and Persistent Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is often associated with persistent pain despite effective anti-inflammatory treatment. Digital health applications (DHAs) provide innovative approaches to address multidimensional aspects of persistent pain through psychological and behavioral strategies. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a DHA using acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on disease outcomes, including the West Haven-Yale Multidimensional Pain Inventory (MPI), in patients with axSpA experiencing persistent pain despite stable pharmacological therapy.

Methods

This unblinded, multicentric, randomized controlled trial compared an intervention group (IG) receiving the ACT app with a standard of care (SOC) group. The ACT app provided behavioral therapy.

SUBMITTER: Kiefer D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12826091 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature