Effectiveness of telerehabilitation in non-operatively managed shoulder conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

作者：T. Lin, Yang Yang, Hai-yan Hong, Xiaobo Zhou, Tao‐Hsin Tung, Binbin Zheng, Zhang Jian-min · 发表于：BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1186/s12891-025-08839-x · 被引用次数：10 · 研究领域：Shoulder Injury and Treatment、Nerve Injury and Rehabilitation、Telemedicine and Telehealth Implementation

BACKGROUND: Non-operatively managed shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tendinopathy, subacromial pain syndrome, adhesive capsulitis, and non-displaced proximal humerus fractures, frequently cause pain and restricted mobility. While traditional rehabilitation is effective, access to in-person therapy can be hindered by various factors. Telerehabilitation, which leverages telecommunication technologies, is a promising alternative to traditional in-person rehabilitation. However, its overall efficacy remains uncertain due to inconsistent findings in prior studies. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of telerehabilitation for non-operatively managed shoulder conditions, concentrating on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The control group received standard in-person rehabilitation or home-based exercise programs. The primary outcomes assessed were pain (using the visual Analog Scale [VAS]), range of motion (ROM) including flexion, abduction, external rotation and internal rotation, as well as functional outcomes evaluated through the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index [SPADI], Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand [DASH], and Quick DASH scores. RESULTS: Eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Data synthesis employed random-effects or fixed-effects models based on heterogeneity, with the risk of bias evaluated via the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Telerehabilitation over 12 weeks significantly reduced pain c...