Telerehabilitation with Web-Based Exercises for Individuals with Postural Problems: Digital Touch to Posture Disorders-A Randomized Controlled Study on Telerehabilitation for Postural Problems.

Background

Postural problems such as head forward posture, thoracic hyperkyphosis, and lumbar hyperlordosis, when seen together, further complicate postural control, increasing the importance of comprehensive approaches in treatment. This study aims to examine the effect of 6 weeks of telerehabilitation with web-based exercises and compare the home-based exercises in individuals with postural problems. Trial

Design

A Randomized Controlled Study.

Methods

A total of 34 volunteers with postural deformity among young adults were randomly divided into telerehabilitation (n = 17) and control (n = 17) groups. Craniovertebral, thoracic kyphosis, and lumbar lordosis angles of all individuals were evaluated with a smartphone application (Clinometer+ Bubble), hamstring and pectoral muscle shortness with a goniometer, and trunk muscle endurance with endurance tests created by McGill and Sorenson. Whilst the tele-rehabilitation group was provided with a video-based exercise program, the control group was advised to follow the same exercise program at home. Exercises were performed 3 days a week for 6 weeks, as 1-h sessions. Participants in the telerehabilitation group were followed up with a synchronized video conference.

Results

A significant difference was observed in the telerehabilitation group in muscle shortness and the endurance tests (p < 0.05). Only a significant difference in left (p = 0.03) and right (p = 0.04) muscle shortness was observed in the home exercise group. Significant differences were observed in Craniovertebral and lumbar lordosis angles between groups (p < 0.05), with the telerehabilitation group showing better outcomes. The kyphosis angle, muscle shortness, and endurance test results between groups were found to be similar (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Six weeks of telerehabilitation can improve muscle shortness and trunk endurance in young adults with postural deformities. Both the exercise program using telerehabilitation and the home exercise program were beneficial for individuals with postural problems, with more favorable effects observed in the telerehabilitation group.