Mental Health App for Foot and Ankle Injuries
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a mental health app designed to help young dancers with foot and ankle injuries build self-compassion during recovery. Participants will use the app, called SuperBetter, to perform short, enjoyable mental health exercises alongside their regular physical therapy. The trial aims to determine if these exercises ease recovery and improve mental well-being. It seeks dancers aged 13-18 who danced at least three times a week before their injury and have access to a device for the app. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for young dancers to enhance their recovery journey and contribute to innovative mental health research.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this mental health app is safe for adolescent dancers?
Research shows that the SuperBetter app is safe and easy to use. Studies have found that this app improves mental health and resilience without harmful side effects. By turning mental health exercises into a game, it becomes more engaging. This game-like approach has been tested in various studies, which showed positive results for mental health. Therefore, using the app in this study is expected to be safe for participants.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the mental health app, SuperBetter, because it introduces a novel approach to supporting recovery from foot and ankle injuries. Unlike traditional treatments that focus solely on physical rehabilitation, this app incorporates gamified mental health exercises, which could enhance mental resilience and improve overall recovery outcomes. By engaging users in a fun and interactive way for just 10 minutes a day, five days a week, the app aims to boost motivation and adherence to physical therapy regimens. This blend of mental and physical health strategies might offer a more holistic recovery process compared to standard care options such as physical therapy alone.
What evidence suggests that this mental health app is effective for enhancing self-compassion in adolescent dancers recovering from foot and ankle injuries?
Research has shown that the SuperBetter app, available to participants in this trial, can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. A study from 2021 found that using this app during the COVID-19 pandemic eased anxiety. Another review identified SuperBetter as the most effective app for reducing anxiety and depression symptoms among several tested. The app transforms mental health exercises into fun, game-like activities, making self-care easier to practice. This approach proves especially helpful during challenging times, such as recovering from injuries.12345
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adolescent dancers aged 13 to 18 who are recovering from foot or ankle injuries. They must consider dance their primary sport, practicing at least three times a week before the injury, and be willing to follow the study's procedures using a mental health app on their device throughout the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the experimental group use the SuperBetter app for 10 minutes, 5 days per week, for 12 weeks alongside physical therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mental Health App
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Diego
Lead Sponsor
Sanford Scholars Program Mentor Funding
Collaborator