Effects of telerehabilitation on physical function and activities of daily living in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a scoping review

• Published in: Journal of physical therapy science Vol. 37; no. 8; pp. 427 - 434
• Main Authors: Kato, Naoki, Suzuki, Ryota, Kaneko, Hideo, Horimoto, Yukari
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 01.08.2025
• Subjects: Review; Scoping review; Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; Telerehabilitation
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.37.427

[Purpose] This study aimed to clarify the effects of telerehabilitation on physical function and activities of daily living in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis through a literature review. [Participants and Methods] We conducted a scoping review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Extension for Scoping Reviews reporting guidelines. The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases were searched. Study design, type of interventions, telerehabilitation methods, adherence, effectiveness, adverse events, and patient satisfaction were extracted from the selected literature. [Results] Four case-series and one case-control study were identified. The interventions included respiratory muscle training (two studies), aerobic exercise, stretching, and comprehensive physical therapy (one study each). Various modalities were used, including videoconferencing, on-demand instructional videos, and real-time monitoring of vital signs using wearable devices. No serious adverse events were reported in any study. The dropout rate was 0-21%, and the compliance rate was 90%, indicating high adherence. Improvements in respiratory function and ADL were observed following respiratory rehabilitation. Patient satisfaction with telerehabilitation was high. [Conclusion] Telerehabilitation may improve adherence, respiratory function, and activities of daily living in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. However, its effects on other aspects of physical function remain unclear. Further high-quality studies are needed to establish evidence-based practices.