Arthritis Self-Management Online: A Randomized 6-Month Trial
Kate Lorig, Stanford University School of Medicine; Diana Laurent, Stanford University of Medicine; Kathryn Plan, Stanford University of Medicine; Philip Ritter, Stanford University of Medicine

To determine the effectiveness of an Internet Arthritis Self-Management Program (IASMP), US residents with OA (57%), RA (31%) or fibromyalgia (12%) were recruited over the Internet. After a baseline questionnaire they were randomized to IASMP or usual care. Each moderated 6-wk program of 24 received new interactive didactic material each week, participated in bulletin board discussions, and had access to various tailored online tools. Data were collected by validated self-administered online questionnaires at baseline and 6 months. Results: Mean age 55 (19-85), 93% Caucasian, 10% men, mean education 16 yrs (6-23). 73% completed 6 month data. IASMP participants (N=208) compared to controls (N=231) using analysis of covariance controlling for age, gender, education, marital status and baseline value, demonstrated improvements in pain, disability, health distress, role function, self-reported health, and self-efficacy to deal with the consequences of arthritis (all p<.05). Effect sizes ranged from .24-34. There were no changes in exercise or health care utilization. Conclusion: This Internet-based intervention appears to have effects similar to the small group ASMP. Using the Internet to deliver a program where participants can interact with each other may reach a different and larger group of people with arthritis than the more traditional small group program.