Telephysical therapy

This chapter covers the use of telehealth in physiotherapy practice. TelePT is described as the provision of physiotherapy services (assessment and intervention) at a distance using telecommunications technology as the service delivery medium. It includes the use of voice and data between two or more units via telecommunication channels (phone, computer, mobile applications). TelePT is a growing area of physiotherapy as it offers solutions to many barriers associated with the delivery of physiotherapy services, such as transportation cost and time from the perspective of both the healthcare system and the client; it also facilitates continuity of care after discharge from hospital and allows for rehabilitation in the client’s own social and vocational environments. The role of health monitoring devices, such as fitness trackers, pedometers and accelerometers in the physiotherapy assessment and the use of game-based software and smartphone applications to deliver treatment strategies are also covered in this chapter. Physiotherapy goals that could be achieved via telehealth and the evidence behind its application in numerous populations are discussed. Lastly, this chapter provides the reader with a practical framework on the eligibility of clients for telePT, assessments and treatment strategies.