Efficacy of a computer vision-based system for exercise management in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a study protocol for a randomised controlled pilot trial

Introduction This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a computer vision system in guiding exercise management for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) by comparing functional improvement between a tele-rehabilitation versus an outpatient intervention program. Methods and analysis This is a prospective, single-blind, randomised controlled trial of 60 patients with knee OA who will be randomly assigned to exercise therapy (n=30) or control (n=30) . Both groups will receive treatment two times per week for 12 weeks. The primary outcome of the study will be assessed using the University of Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score will be assessed, as well as the visual analogue scale, quality of life score and physical fitness score. All observations will be collected at baseline and at weeks 4, 8 and 12 during the intervention period, as well as at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 24 during the follow-up visits after the end of the intervention. Ethics and dissemination This evaluator-blinded, prospective, randomised controlled study was approved by the Biomedical Ethics Review Committee of West China Hospital of Sichuan University. Trial registration number ChiCTR2300070319.