Physical Performance and Mobility Tests Using Telehealth: A Feasibility Study With Athletes

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science
• Telehealth Technology

Background:

• Physical performance tests (PPTs) and mobility tests are crucial in sports rehabilitation.
• The feasibility of conducting these assessments remotely via telehealth remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the feasibility of using telehealth for physical performance tests and mobility assessments in athletes.
• To evaluate athlete adherence, satisfaction, and safety during remote testing.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study involving athletes recruited via social media.
• Athletes performed standardized PPTs and mobility tests for lower/upper extremities and trunk remotely.
• Feasibility assessed via recruitment, success, and dropout rates; athlete perceptions of ease, satisfaction, and safety were collected.

Main Results:

• Seventy-three athletes completed the study, with 41 assessing lower-extremity and 32 upper-extremity/trunk functions.
• The overall dropout rate was 20.55%.
• Over 89% found the tests easy, over 78% were satisfied, and over 75% felt safe during telehealth assessments.

Conclusions:

• Telehealth PPTs and mobility tests are a feasible method for assessing athletes' physical function.
• The results support the use of remote assessments, considering high adherence and positive athlete feedback on ease, satisfaction, and safety.