BackUp

The BackUp app is used as part of a scientific study by the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and the Berlin Institute of Health. It can be used by study participants affected by chronic back pain. The psychological aspects that worsen pain and contribute to chronicity include pain catastrophizing. The aim of the study is to investigate the effectiveness of the BackUp app. This is based on the principle of real-time interventions (so-called just-in-time adaptive interventions, JITAI). High-resolution patient surveys several times a day (Ecological Momentary Assessments, EMA) allow self-help interventions to be adapted to current symptoms. In addition to improving the user's pain, processes of pain perception and processing as well as psychological stress and external conditions at work or at home are identified, which are relevant for the development and maintenance of chronic pain. The pseudonymized data from the BackUp app is scientifically evaluated and can help to improve the treatment of patients with chronic back pain. The app offers a comprehensive, holistic approach to established and modern self-help measures in the areas of relaxation, psychotherapy and physiotherapy. All interventions from the various areas were developed together with patients and experts such as doctors, psychotherapists and physiotherapists.
Real-time surveys are collected within the app throughout the day. In the natural environment, the progression of pain and associated complaints can be recorded very precisely. Based on the current pain sensation, it is then determined whether a short 5-10 minute intervention is suggested, which the users can then carry out independently. The short interventions are randomly given to the users. Depending on the level of pain, up to four micro-interventions per day are suggested. When carrying out the self-help measures, users are supported by audio, video and text instructions. Users are recommended to use a sports mat or something similar for the physiotherapeutic exercises. No further aids are necessary.