Unleash Pain Relief with Digital Solutions
More than twelve million individuals in Germany battle chronic pain, with an average duration of seven years. One in five sufferers grapples with their pain for over two decades, and it often takes more than two years before treatment commences, owing to a substantial deficit in healthcare facilities, as per the German Pain Society. Apps, specifically those prescribed by medical experts - Digital Health Applications (DiGAs) - are now under the spotlight, with experts deliberating on their potential to enhance therapy and deter new pain during the German Pain Society and German Headache and Migraine Society (DMKG) Conferences.
Virtual Reality Eases Pain
Prof. Dr. Axel Schäfer, a therapy researcher and physiotherapist from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Hildesheim, references virtual reality (VR) as a software-based therapeutic technique. VR glasses craft a virtual non-physical world, enabling users to immerse themselves comprehensively. This virtual immersion effectively shields them from their discomfort while potentially transforming their perspective of their real body and pain.
DiGAs Aiding in Pain Management
The Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) maintains a list of 55 DiGAs, and as of now, eleven can be prescribed for pain treatment. These apps predominantly incorporate aspects such as stress reduction, relaxation, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and a pain journal. They could bolster outpatient treatment, helping patients seamlessly extend their achievements into their daily routines.
Top 5 Apps for Pain Management
1. The Endo App
Specifically intended for women aged 18 and above with diagnosed endometriosis, this app, though not strictly prescriptive, provides relevant information about self-management techniques, along with exercises to alleviate symptoms and a pain diary to track symptoms and related activities. Utilizing AI tools, the app promotes constructive behavior and ongoing usage, leading to reduced health insurance expenditures.
2. Kaia for Back Pain
Women and men between the ages of 18 and 65 suffering from back pain can use this app without contraindications or special therapy requirements. The application's therapy program encompasses three elements: exercises designed to target patients' abilities and needs, relaxation methods, and knowledge on pain causes. To use the app, users have to either obtain a prescription or an activation code from their health insurance provider.
3. Orthopy for Knee Injuries
Patients dealing with meniscus damage, torn anterior cruciate ligaments, and ankle sprains can utilize this app to gain access to suitable training programs quickly, with the aid of videos and information on orthopaedic and accident surgery. Users can create personalized workout plans, targeting their specific injuries.
4. Selfapys Online Course for Chronic Pain
Catering to men and women aged 18 and above with persistent physical or chronic pain disorders, the app offers stress relief methods, exercises, and information sessions, helping patients to develop and manage their symptoms effectively. This application can be used as a supplement to existing therapy, bridge a gap in awaiting therapy, or stand alone for DiGA use.
5. sinCephalea - Migraine Prevention
Designed for migraine patients aged 18 and above, this app aids individuals in preventing their migraines using personalized nutritional plans. SinCephalea assists users by offering lessons on migraines, nutrition, and stress reduction techniques. It also provides a diary, enabling patients to record and assess their migraine symptoms and daily lifestyle factors.
Telemedicine for Pain Patients
Telemedicine holds immense potential in caring for patients with chronic pain and can be particularly beneficial in making healthcare more accessible and location-independent. The existence of digital technology and its integration into healthcare signifies a promising future in which patients can be treated and offered support remotely, catering to diverse needs and promoting a patient-centric approach.
In conclusion, Adopting digital solutions such as VR and DiGAs can strengthen pain management strategies, providing patients with tailored, remote, and flexible treatment options. By harnessing the potential of these technologies, Germany can bridge gaps in care for chronic pain patients, fostering improvements in wellbeing and quality of life.
Sources: [1] [2] [3] [4]
