Background/Purpose: Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions significantly impact public health in the United States, affecting approximately 128 million adults and resulting in over $600 billion in annual socioeconomic costs. Low back pain (LBP) and knee osteoarthritis (OA) are the most prevalent MSK disorders, with projections suggesting their incidence will increase substantially due to aging populations and rising obesity rates. The purpose of this study was to evaluate healthcare claims utilization (HCRU), clinical outcomes, and patient satisfaction for individuals with knee and back pain treated with a home-based, biomechanical intervention that aims to provide precision medicine for patients with MSK conditions.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of claims data was conducted on 616 patients with knee and back pain who were treated with a non-invasive, home-based, biomechanical intervention (AposHealth) from October 2020 to October 2023. Eligibility was determined based on specific diagnostic criteria. 3,576 patients with knee and back pain who were receiving the standard of care served as controls. HCRU, pain levels, functional disability, and patient adherence satisfaction were captured.

Results: Significant reductions in HCRU were noted, with significantly lower rates of minor and major surgeries compared to control groups. The economic analysis suggested substantial cost savings of approximately $9 million over 20 months, suggesting an 80% reduction in costs in those treated with the biomechanical intervention compared to controls. Pain levels decreased significantly by 32.5% and 57% at 3 and 6 months post-treatment for back pain, respectively. Patients with knee pain reported a significant decrease of 39% and 35% at 3 and 6 months, respectively.

Conclusion: The examined biomechanical interventions significantly reduced pain and improved function, which presumably is a driving factor for a meaningful reduction in HCRU and potential cost savings. With the urgent need for innovative strategies that alleviate the burden of MSK disorders on the healthcare system, this intervention should be considered as a non-invasive, safe and effective option.

Figure 1. Biomechanical device

Figure 2. Total Collections per patient

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ACR Meeting Abstracts - https://acrabstracts.org/abstract/pain-reduction-and-functional-improvements-following-a-non-invasive-biomechanical-intervention-for-gait-rehabilitation-may-explain-a-reduction-in-healthcare-claims-an-observational-study/