Telerehabilitation in Orthopaedic Rehabilitation Practice: A Narrative Review Focused on Lower Limb Osteoarthritis and Arthroplasty

Telerehabilitation has become a vital component of digital health, particularly due to increasing prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions with aging population and the need for accessible, cost-effective care. Its role in orthopedic conditions has gained importance in recent years and our review aims to summarize the current evidence and technological tools associated in orthopedic rehabilitation practice, with a focus on knee and hip osteoarthritis and arthroplasty. Emerging technology such as mobile apps, virtual reality, and wearable sensors enhance administration, enrollment, personalization, and data collection. Telerehabilitation literature demonstrates clinical equivalence to conventional “on hands” rehabilitation in terms of pain relief, physical function, and quality of life, particularly in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Positive outcomes have also been reported following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and hip fractures. Overall, telerehabilitation represents a transformative approach to musculoskeletal care, offering promising results in orthopedic patients. We think that advances in implementing engineering in medicine may define the future of post-operative and chronic condition management.