Technologies to Support Assessment of Movement During Video Consultations: Exploratory Study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Technology
• Telehealth
• Movement Analysis

Background:

• Assessing patient body movements is crucial for physical rehabilitation.
• Video consultations present challenges in observing full-body patient movements remotely.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore readily available technologies for remote patient movement assessment during video consultations.
• To evaluate the efficacy of various technologies in supporting remote physical rehabilitation assessments.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and selection of four technologies: Kubi, Pivo, Facebook Portal TV, and wide-angle webcam.
• Utilized five standard physical assessments (e.g., sit-to-stand, Timed Up & Go) to test technology efficacy.
• Developed an evaluation framework assessing efficacy, cost, setup, training, and safety, with 10 physiotherapists evaluating seven technology combinations.

Main Results:

• Kubi aided camera repositioning but not movement tracking; Facebook Portal TV was limited to upper body movement.
• Pivo (automated full body tracking) and wide-angle webcams demonstrated significant potential for remote movement assessment.
• Simpler solutions like using a friend or mobile phone holder also showed promise, though improved setup instructions are needed.

Conclusions:

• Successful remote movement assessment via video consultation relies on technology readiness, patient condition, and social support.
• Wide-angle webcams, Pivo, and basic mobile support solutions are promising for off-the-shelf use.
• Collaborative development between patients and clinicians is essential for advancing telehealth in movement assessment.