A new digital-driven pain management programme for people with arthritis has been launched in the UK.
Wellmind Health has developed Pathway through Arthritis in partnership with the UK’s largest arthritis charity Versus Arthritis.
The web-based programme, a Class I medical device and DTAC compliant, is delivered through Wellmind Health’s NHS-commissioned digital treatments as a service (DTaaS) platform.
It was conceived to help individuals with different forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. By empowering self-management of persistent pain it aims to reduce the impact of these conditions on daily life.
According to UK-based data, people with arthritis are 20% less likely to be in work than someone without arthritis, and one third of people with rheumatoid arthritis quit work within 5 years of diagnosis.
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions like arthritis account for 1 in 7 GP consultations.
Total annual NHS spend related to arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions in England is roughly £5bn and with an ageing population and rising rates of obesity these figures are expected to grow.
Designed in partnership with Versus Arthritis, the Pathway through Arthritis program teaches participants a new approach to arthritis pain through the practice of clinically employed pain self-management techniques, exercise, lifestyle changes and cognitive approaches led by a multi-disciplinary team of experts.
Health outcomes are measured during and after the program using clinically recognised self-reporting assessments for Disability (ODI), Health State (EQ VAS), Depression (PHQ-9) Anxiety (GAD-7) and the newly developed Musculoskeletal Health (MSK-HQ).
Participants who have trialled the platform have reported overall improvements in health, anxiety and depression.
Zoe Chivers, director of services and influencing at Versus Arthritis, said: “Living with arthritis is not just about ‘having a few aches and pains’.
“For some, it can have a profound impact on life. Many with the condition are facing long waits for diagnosis, treatment and surgery. Without the right support, this can place a huge strain on mental wellbeing.
“Through our partnership with Wellmind Health, we’re excited to bring people innovative technology and tools that can make a big difference to their lives in managing arthritis, and to support our healthcare services across the country.”
Wellmind Health provides drug-free digital treatments for mental health and pain management.
Clinical-grade digital therapies Be Mindful and Pathway through Pain have been deployed across NHS services for over a decade with full healthcare regulatory compliance.
Programmes deliver significant and measurable long-term improved health outcomes, with real-time engagement and clinical outcome reporting delivered through the secure, web-based management portal.
