Telerehabilitation has emerged as a viable option for postoperative physical therapy, with growing evidence that it can deliver comparable clinical outcomes to traditional face-to-face care for many musculoskeletal surgeries. A randomized controlled trial led by Hélène Moffet at Université de Sherbrooke reported that in-home telerehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty produced functional improvements similar to those achieved with conventional outpatient therapy. This supports the effectiveness of remote delivery for structured exercise, range-of-motion work, and supervised progression.
Evidence from systematic reviews
A systematic review by Cottrell at La Trobe University and Russell at the University of Queensland synthesized trials on real-time telerehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions and found outcomes roughly equivalent to standard practice alongside high patient satisfaction. These reviews emphasize that telerehabilitation performs best when programs replicate core components of in-person care: individualized assessment, progressive exercise prescription, and clinician feedback delivered synchronously or through well-designed asynchronous platforms. Variation in study quality and heterogeneity of interventions means conclusions should be applied with clinical judgment.
Causes and broader consequences
Adoption was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and by technological improvements in video conferencing and remote monitoring. The practical causes include convenience for patients, reduced travel time, and easier integration into daily routines. Consequences encompass both health-system benefits and equity challenges. Telerehabilitation can expand access in rural or remote territories where specialist therapists are scarce, reducing waiting times and lowering travel-related emissions and costs. Conversely, the digital divide means older adults, low-income households, and regions with poor broadband may face reduced access. Cultural norms around privacy, family caregiving roles, and expectations of hands-on treatment also influence uptake and adherence in different communities.
Clinical implications center on patient selection and program design. Patients with straightforward postoperative recovery and adequate home support are most likely to benefit, while those requiring manual therapy or complex monitoring may still need in-person visits. Policy and reimbursement frameworks, clinician training, and ongoing comparative research will shape long-term integration. Overall, for many postoperative rehabilitation needs, telerehabilitation is an effective, patient-centered option when implemented with attention to technological access, cultural context, and evidence-based program structure.