[Digital rehabilitation methods in orthopaedics-Current status, evidence, and perspectives]

Digital technologies offer new opportunities in orthopaedic rehabilitation by enabling care that is independent of location and time, enhancing therapy adherence, and optimizing limited resources. This narrative review presents current digital rehabilitation methods-telerehabilitation, digital health applications (DiGA), virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR), and wearable-based feedback systems-and evaluates their evidence base. In addition to clinical outcomes, the review highlights cost-effectiveness, user acceptance, and regulatory frameworks (e.g., DiGA Fast Track, DRV aftercare programmes). Studies show clinical and functional results comparable to face-to-face therapy with simultaneous cost efficiency. Key challenges include data protection, system interoperability, and digital health literacy. In future, AI-supported, interoperable platforms are expected to enable individualised care and outcome-based remuneration.