USE of the Apollo wearable for 4 weeks improved fatigue, Raynaud phenomenon symptoms, and quality of life in patients with systemic sclerosis, a recent study found.
Fatigue is one of the most debilitating symptoms in systemic sclerosis, significantly affecting quality of life. Raynaud phenomenon, another common symptom, further contributes to discomfort and functional limitations. While pharmacological interventions are often used, non-invasive approaches to symptom management remain underexplored. A pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of the Apollo wearable device in alleviating fatigue and Raynaud phenomenon symptoms in patients with systemic sclerosis over a 4-week period.
Twenty-five adult participants with systemic sclerosis, moderate fatigue, and Raynaud phenomenon were enrolled in the study. Each participant used the Apollo device for a minimum of 15 minutes per day over 4 weeks. The primary outcome was a change in fatigue levels, measured using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Fatigue 13a (PROMIS Fatigue) scale. Secondary outcomes included changes in Raynaud phenomenon symptoms and overall quality of life, assessed using PROMIS-29 subscores.
By the end of the study, participants reported significantly reduced fatigue levels (P<0.001). The frequency of Raynaud phenomenon attacks and the Raynaud Condition Score both showed significant reductions (P=0.007). Participants exceeded the required usage time, averaging 2.87 hours per day, and no adverse events were reported. Quality of life improvements were observed in physical function (P=0.01), sleep disturbance (P=0.002), and social participation (P<0.001). Depression and disability scores also improved significantly (P=0.004 and P<0.05, respectively).
These findings suggest that the Apollo wearable may provide a non-invasive method to improve fatigue and Raynaud phenomenon symptoms in patients with systemic sclerosis while also enhancing quality of life. Given the high adherence rate and absence of adverse effects, this intervention may offer a promising adjunct to current treatment strategies.
Jenna Lorge, EMJ
Reference
Hammaker K et al. Association of the apollo wearable with fatigue, Raynaud phenomenon, and quality of life in patients with systemic sclerosis: a pilot study. J Rheumatol. 2025;52(2):158-64
