Telerehabilitation Transforms Recovery: Elevating Outcomes for Lower Limb Amputees

Abstract

Background: Telerehabilitation provides a viable alternative for individuals facing barriers to in-person rehabilitation because of transportation issues and physical limitations. It enables remote monitoring and guidance, allowing patients to continue rehabilitation at home. Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a telerehabilitation program in improving physical and psychological outcomes for lower limb amputees and to evaluate adherence to a home-based exercise program delivered via video. Study design: A randomized controlled trial. Methods: Sixty participants with lower limb amputations were randomized to an experimental group (telerehabilitation) or a control group (standard care). The intervention involved a 4-week supervised phase followed by a 4-week unsupervised phase. Primary outcomes were physical capacity, measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and psychological status, assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Secondary outcomes included adherence rates and patient satisfaction. Results: The experimental group showed significant improvements in 6MWT distance and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores compared to the control group. The mean 6MWT distance increased by 20% from baseline to the end of the supervised phase (P < 0.01) and was maintained during the unsupervised phase. Anxiety and depression scores significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Adherence was higher during the supervised phase (85%) but dropped during the unsupervised phase (60%). Conclusions: Telerehabilitation significantly improved physical and psychological outcomes for lower limb amputees. High adherence during the supervised phase emphasizes the importance of clinician support, whereas strategies are needed to sustain long-term engagement during the unsupervised phase.