Smartphone-based systems for physical rehabilitation applications: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Mobile Health Technology

Background:

• Tele-rehabilitation is a rapidly growing field with a significant market value.
• Mobile device-based healthcare (mHealth) presents a transformative approach to delivering remote rehabilitation services.
• Smartphone applications are increasingly utilized for facilitating physical rehabilitation remotely.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing literature on smartphone-based systems for remote physical rehabilitation.
• To classify these systems by target medical conditions and technological features.
• To identify research trends, limitations, and opportunities in smartphone-assisted rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review was conducted using Web of Science search results.
• A total of 74 relevant documents were analyzed.
• Systems were categorized based on medical conditions, technology taxonomy, and monitored activities.

Main Results:

• Major research focus areas include stroke, cardiac disease, balance impairment, and joint/limb rehabilitation.
• Some systems offer patient-caregiver communication and progress management features.
• Limited attention is given to other diseases, and few systems computerize existing clinical tests.

Conclusions:

• Smartphone-based rehabilitation systems show promise but require further development in advanced functionalities and usability.
• Clinical validation and evidence-based design are crucial for widespread adoption.
• Recommendations are provided for researchers and companies to enhance the design and selection of these systems.