Wearable Technology in Orthopaedic Surgery: Applications and Future Directions

» Wearable technologies (wearables), including smartphones, smartwatches, and sensors, such as accelerometers and inertial measurement units, enable continuous, real-time, and objective data collection on physical function, health behaviors, and patient perceptions.» Wearables can track mobility metrics such as step count, activity duration, and joint range of motion, providing valuable longitudinal insights into recovery trajectories.» In orthopaedic surgery, wearables support timely, personalized patient education and improve communication between patients and surgical teams, contributing to better functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.» Smart implants and virtual/augmented reality systems are emerging as innovative approaches to enhancing engagement and adherence during postoperative rehabilitation.» Key challenges to implementation include concerns about data privacy, accessibility, and integration into clinical workflows.