Impacts of Digital Care Programs for MSK Conditions on Depression/Work Productivity: Longitudinal Cohort Study

Study Overview

Comorbidity between musculoskeletal pain and depression is highly common and associated with greater symptom burden and greater loss of work productivity. Sword Health’s programs adopt a biopsychosocial approach that addresses both physical and mental health as recommended by clinical guidelines. In this study, we assessed the effect of our programs (composed of exercise, education, and cognitive behavioral therapy) on mental health and work-related outcomes. Upon completion, significant improvements in productivity as well as reduced levels of depression and anxiety were observed in the highly comorbid groups. This is the first study to demonstrate that a digital MSK care program can be helpful for patients with moderate to severe mental health comorbidities.