TeleRehabilitation is a remote appointment that can be done in your home using videoconferencing. During your online appointment, your physiotherapist will perform a thorough history, observe you as you move in your own physical environment and provide you with a provisional diagnosis, all within the comfort of your own home. Through TeleRehabilitation, our team at Elevation Physiotherapy can provide you with the same level of advice, education, self-management strategies and a home program using our Physitrack software program. Other than not being able to physically touch our patients, so much of what we already do effectively in-clinic can be done via TeleRehabilitation!
What Are The Benefits Of TeleRehabilitation?
Studies have shown that physiotherapy delivered using TeleRehabilitation have improved pain and function that is better than self management and is equivalent to face to face intervention for the improvement of physical function (Cottrell et al). In another study, there was a 93.3% agreement in patho-anatomical diagnosis between face to face and TeleRehabilitation assessments (Russell et al, 2010.)
Without having to leave your home, this will save you both time and money. When combined with our Physitrack software exercise program, your condition can be monitored and your exercises can be modified and progressed.
Is TeleRehabilitation Appropriate For Everyone?
Prior to you making a TeleRehab appointment, our staff will determine if this service is appropriate for you. If we decide that you require a direct physical examination to determine your diagnosis or if there are concerns about your condition that cannot be managed by TeleRehab, then we will advise you to visit your physician or the emergency department. In addition, if you lack adequate space in your home or if you do not have the necessary technology, then TeleRehab may not be right for you.
How Do I Connect For My TeleRehabilitation Session?
If you are a current or past patient of ours, then the transition to TeleRehab will be seamless. If you are new to our clinic, you will need to create an account with us. You will receive instructions with your email reminder of your appointment, or you can always contact our front staff for instructions. A laptop is ideal and you will require either Google Chrome or Firefox as your web browser (not Safari). Apple iPhones and iPads are currently not compatible.
What Do I Need To Do To Prepare For My TeleRehab Session?
Preparing for your TeleRehab session is an important step to ensure everything goes smoothly. TeleRehabilitation allows you to receive physiotherapy from the comfort of your own home, making it a convenient option when in-person proves difficult. To make the most of your session, follow these simple steps to get ready for your appointment and ensure you receive the best care from your physiotherapist. Here’s what you need to do:
- Complete the TeleRehabilitation consent and patient intake form when you register for TeleRehab.
- Ensure you have a laptop, a secure internet connection and Google Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.
- Arrive early at your laptop for your appointment. Ensure your laptop is fully charged and the microphone and camera on your laptop are in working order.
- Ensure you have adequate space for the physical examination (ability to lie down, walk, sit, stand, demonstrate your exercises).
- Choose a room with little traffic, noise and distractions as much as possible. Optimize this one-on-one time with your Therapist. Ensure adequate lighting in your room.
- If you have previous exercise equipment required for your exercises (Therabands, foam rollers, weights), have these ready and close at hand.
- After connecting and before proceeding with the appointment, complete the final consent on screen. Your physiotherapist may ask that another person in your residence be present to assist you with the appointment. In this case, your physiotherapist will also ask for this person’s consent.
- Wear appropriate clothing. Light colored clothing works best. Avoid wearing dark clothing.
- Let your physiotherapist know if you have any questions!
Conditions We Have Treated:
We are proud to offer effective TeleRehabilitation services for a wide range of conditions. Our innovative approach has allowed us to successfully treat many patients from the comfort of their homes. Whether you’re dealing with joint issues, muscle pain, balance problems, or recovery from injuries, our dedicated team is here to support you. Below is a list of some of the conditions we’ve treated through TeleRehabilitation, showcasing our commitment to helping you regain your health and improve your quality of life.
- Subacute lateral patella subluxation (recent partial dislocation of the kneecap to the outside of the knee)
- Hip Osteoarthritis
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Whiplash injuries from Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Post Concussion Disorder
- Dizziness from a Unilateral Vestibular Loss (loss of balance in one ear)
- Ankle Avulsion fracture
- Advice on cardiovascular and strength exercises for pre-existing injuries and conditions.
- Frozen shoulder
- Rotator cuff tears
- Headaches
- And more!
What Our Clients Have to Say:
“I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to adjust to TeleRehab. It was lovely being able to be in my own space, with my own equipment. It was one less barrier to completing my PhysiApp exercises, we simply worked with what I had available at home. Albert gave the same incredibly high level of attention to detail, care, and support that he always does. Since our appointment, I’ve had significant progress that would not have been possible without TeleRehab. My pain has reduced and my mobility has increased. I’m grateful to Albert and his team for creatively continuing to offer and adapt services and continuity of care in these challenging times.” – Chantel M.
Are you struggling at home with pain? Is it difficult for you to attend regular in-person physiotherapy appointments? Are you interested in a home-based cardiovascular or strength program? If so, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. TeleRehabilitation works!
References:
Cottrell et al. Agreement between Telehealth and in-Person assessment of patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions presenting to an advanced practise physiotherapy screening clinic. Musc. Sci. Pract. (2018) Dec 38:99-105.
Russell et al. TeleRehabilitation Mediated Physiotherapy Assessment of Ankle Disorders. Physiother.Res.Int. 15 (2010) 167-175.