The application of a digital therapeutic reveals superior outcome compared to standard care in patients with anterior knee pain—a randomized controlled trial

• DOI: 10.1007/s00402-025-05787-y
• Publication Date: 2025-03-12T02:47:18Z
• Authors: Felix Ferner; Maximilian Schenke; Christoph Lutter; Wolf Petersen; Turgay Efe; Arno Schmeling; Kaywan Izadpanah; Florian Perwanger; Jörg Harrer; Jörg Dickschas
• Keywords: Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome; Knee pain

Abstract Purpose Anterior knee pain is a frequent symptom caused by disorders like patellofemoral syndrome or patella tendon tendinitis, which commonly treated conservatively. The aim of the current study was to examine effectiveness digital therapeutic (DT) versus German standard care through prospective, randomized, multicenter controlled trial. Methods Study participants were recruited in 9 orthopedic specialist centers diagnosed with anterior and NPRS score ≥ 4. Stratified randomization for n = 140 conducted, assigning intervention group (exclusive use DT) control (standard care). Standard included 1–3 prescriptions physical therapy, while DT consisted 90-day personalized exercise therapy program including educational content. primary endpoints measured functional impairment Kujala Score. Results compared showed an improvement clinical outcomes (NPRS − 3.7 ± 2.67 18.00 13.96, both p < 0.001). Both function improved clinically statistically significantly (ANOVA: 1.64 0.35, 0.001, 9.26 2.52, 0.01). Conclusion significant improvements therapy. These results are highly relevant practice treatment decision-making patients as bridges effectively gaps healthcare systems.