Integration of Biomechanical Analysis and Motion Capture Technology in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: A...

Biomechanical analysis and motion-capture technology have emerged as valuable tools for the objective assessment of human movement in physical therapy and rehabilitation. These technologies provide quantitative information on gait, balance, posture, joint kinematics, and functional performance, thereby supporting clinical decision-making and individualized rehabilitation. Despite increasing clinical adoption, evidence regarding their effectiveness across different rehabilitation populations remains heterogeneous. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the integration of biomechanical analysis and motion-capture technology in physical therapy and rehabilitation. A systematic literature search was conducted across major electronic databases to identify randomized controlled trials evaluating the integration of biomechanical analysis and motion-capture technologies within physical therapy and rehabilitation. Studies that investigated biomechanical analysis, motion-capture systems, wearable sensors, virtual reality, and markerless motion-capture technologies in physical therapy interventions were considered. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool, and a narrative synthesis was performed because of clinical and methodological heterogeneity. The evidence encompassed neurological, musculoskeletal, pediatric, geriatric, and oncological rehabilitation populations. Interventions incorporated Kinect-based rehabilitation, markerless motion capture, wearable sensor systems, virtual reality, robot-assisted gait training, movement biofeedback, and sensor-augmented telerehabilitation. Overall, the evidence indicated improvements in gait, balance, postural control, movement quality, functional mobility, limb-loading symmetry, upper limb function, and quality of life across various rehabilitation settings. Risk of bias assessment indicated generally low risk of bias or some concerns, although concerns related to deviations from intended interventions and reporting practices were observed across the evidence base. The integration of biomechanical analysis and motion-capture technology may enhance objective movement assessment and support functional recovery across diverse rehabilitation populations. These technologies may facilitate individualized rehabilitation and evidence-based clinical decision-making through quantitative movement analysis and feedback. However, methodological heterogeneity highlights the need for standardized assessment protocols and high-quality trials to establish their long-term clinical effectiveness and support broader implementation in rehabilitation practice.