Quality assessment of Chinese robot-assisted rehabilitation shorts

The growing rehabilitation demands driven by global aging and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases underscore the limitations of conventional therapies, highlighting robot-assisted training as a promising alternative. However, public awareness remains limited, and the quality of health information on short-video platforms is highly variable. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and reliability of Chinese-language videos pertaining to robot-assisted rehabilitation on Douyin and BiliBili.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 5 February 2025, involving the selection of the top 100 videos related to "robotic rehabilitation" from each of two platforms: Douyin and BiliBili. The Global Quality Score (GQS) and modified DISCERN tool (mDISCERN) were employed to assess the quality and reliability of the video content. Videos were categorized by their source and content type. Meanwhile, their interaction metrics (including likes, comments, shares, and favorites) as well as basic characteristics (such as upload time and duration) were extracted. Cohen'sκtest was used to evaluate inter-rater reliability. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationships between variables. Additionally, multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing the quality and reliability of the videos.

A total of 200 videos were included in the study (100 from each platform). Videos on Douyin were shorter in duration but garnered significantly higher user engagement (all p < 0.001 for likes, comments, shares, and favorites), whereas videos on BiliBili were longer and featured more academic resource citations. Median scores for video quality and reliability on both platforms were moderate (GQS = 2, mDISCERN = 2), yet BiliBili had a higher proportion of high-quality videos. Content created by experts exhibited greater informational value, while commercially promoted videos demonstrated lower credibility. Multiple regression analysis revealed that sources from academic and medical institutions, content types focused on science communication/education and expert explanations, video duration, and daily share rate were significant positive predictors of both GQS and mDISCERN scores.

Short-video platforms serve as valuable channels for disseminating information on robot-assisted rehabilitation; however, significant variability in content quality necessitates critical evaluation by users. Individuals should verify the scientific validity of such information before applying it in health-related decision making.