Effect of Telerehabilitation on Quality of Life, Pain, and Function After Rotator Cuff Surgery

Effect of Telerehabilitation Versus Conventional Physiotherapy on Quality of Life, Pain, and Functional Outcomes in Patients Following Rotator Cuff Surgery

he purpose of this study was to find out whether telerehabilitation after rotator cuff surgery can help reduce pain, improve shoulder movement, increase muscle strength, enhance functional ability, and improve quality of life compared to conventional physiotherapy. The study included 30 participants who had undergone rotator cuff surgery at least six weeks earlier. They were divided into two groups: a telerehabilitation group (n=20) and a conventional physiotherapy control group (n=10). Both groups followed an eight-week exercise program, which included range of motion, stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises.

The study found that both groups improved in pain, shoulder mobility, muscle strength, function, and quality of life. Participants in the telerehabilitation group showed particularly greater improvements in shoulder flexion, flexor muscles, external rotator muscles, and overall quality of life. These results suggest that telerehabilitation may be an effective alternative to traditional physiotherapy after rotator cuff surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals who have undergone rotator cuff surgery
• At least 6 weeks post-surgery
• Possess the necessary technology for telerehabilitation (smartphone, computer, internet access)
• Willing to participate in the study and have signed the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of neurological disorders
• Severe cardiovascular or pulmonary conditions
• Need for special medical care due to postoperative infection or complications
• Inability to comply with telerehabilitation due to psychiatric conditions
• Lack of access to or knowledge of technology required for telerehabilitation
• Participation in another rehabilitation program during the study period