Challenges and Prospects of Sensing Technology for the Promotion of Tele-Physiotherapy: A Narrative Review

Sensors (Basel). 2024 Dec 24;25(1):16. doi: 10.3390/s25010016.

Abstract

Significant developments in sensing technology have had many impacts, enhancing monitoring and assessment accuracy across diverse fields. In the field of physical therapy, sensing, which plays a pivotal role in tele-physiotherapy, rapidly expanded amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Its primary objective is to monitor biological signals and patient movements at remote locations. To further enhance the effectiveness and the scope of tele-physiotherapy, it is essential to further develop sensing and data analysis technologies. However, there are usability and analysis issues that have limited its use. The development of these technologies will not only enhance the accuracy of deep learning by AI through the acquisition of big data, but also has the potential to elucidate movement characteristics associated with movement disorders or pathological conditions. Furthermore, improving sensing technologies can broaden applications extending beyond tele-physiotherapy to impact daily life. Looking forward, it holds promise for improving our understanding of disease prognosis and progression.

Keywords: assessment; monitoring; sensing technology; tele-physiotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • SARS-CoV-2*
  • Telemedicine*
  • Telerehabilitation