Feasibility, acceptability and usability of InControl web-platform intervention for older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain: A mixed-methods pilot study protocol.

BACKGROUND

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is highly prevalent among older adults and is associated with disability, reduced physical activity, and decreased quality of life. Digital health interventions can improve access to care and support pain self-management. InControl is a user-centered web-based platform that combines exercise and pain science education. The aim of this pilot study is to assess the usability and acceptability of the InControl platform and the feasibility of the research methods. This will help inform methodological improvements in the design of a future randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

A randomized, parallel-group, mixed-methods pilot study will be conducted with two groups: usual care group and the InControl intervention. Thirty-four participants aged 60 years or older with chronic musculoskeletal pain will be recruited at the Local Health Unit of Aveiro Region. The InControl intervention will last 8 weeks and will combine in-person sessions with remote interventions. Feasibility will be assessed using indicators of recruitment, retention, adherence, refusal, and dropout rates. Usability will be measured using the System Usability Scale, while acceptability and appropriateness will be assessed through a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Secondary outcomes will include pain, physical function, psychological factors, quality of life, and cognitive function. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis.

DISCUSSION: The findings will inform the design of a future large-scale randomized controlled trial and contribute to the development of more effective digital interventions tailored to the needs of older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov, NCT07774416 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07774416?tab=study), August 18, 2026.