Ways Technology Is Transforming Physical Therapy
It wasn’t that long ago when the doctors used to endorse the use of cigarettes to treat respiratory issues! Thankfully as we delve deep into technological advancements our understanding of human health has increased significantly.
Physical therapy is one of the best examples of how modern technology can enable outstanding recoveries, leading to faster recoveries, and effective treatments with positive outcomes.
Starting with the internet becoming available and faster than ever, to relying on tech gizmos to help us with chores, work, child care, and our fitness.
This is often time-consuming and requires plenty of effort, but innovation is making even that aspect of our lives more convenient and easygoing.
But how actually technology is transforming physical therapy?
Let’s find it out together!
Telehealth and Remote Monitoring
Telehealth has become more popular in recent years, this is especially true when in-person visits are more difficult to do.
Thanks to video conferencing, therapists arrange virtual consultations with a single video call, they can assess clients’ progress, and give them invaluable advice without anyone having to leave the comfort of their home/office.
Also, you can rely on remote monitoring devices, which allow them to track their exercise routines without being in the same room with them. They can quickly ask for assistance or share any concerns about pain or discomfort during the sessions.
If you know someone who is recovering from a stroke, this technology will be particularly helpful for them as they re-learn skills.
Wearable Devices
Wearable devices have become the most recognized and used piece of machine, thanks to innovation, therapists quickly and conveniently implement care plans remotely and collect data about patients.
We have selected some of the gadgets that are conquering the physical therapy market:
Skin Sleeves
Skin sleeves are wearable devices used by patients of all ages and abilities where they recommend skin sleeves to ensure that patients adhere to the prescribed treatment plan and to collect the necessary biometric data.
The sports performance sector benefits from this technological advancement immensely, as physical therapists can track performance levels and hone care plans thanks to the sleeves.
Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers
Even if you’re in physical therapy or just want to monitor your daily health, smartwatches, and fitness trackers will be your faithful companions in tracking your heart rate.
On top of that, you can count your steps and even log your meals. Fitness trackers and smartwatches are invaluable because they carefully monitor patient progress and create treatment plans.
Fall Detection Devices
Slip-and-fall accidents are not uncommon and they can easily occur to the elderly, people with or without disabilities.
However, when you know that you’re prone to falling, relying on a device that will detect a fall and alert certain individuals about it, can prevent serious injury and improve response time for the patient.
Likewise, the technology has advanced so much that a device can now analyze patient data and alert patients of health emergencies that may cause a serious fall.
Mobile Apps and Online Platforms
Finding reliable mobile physiotherapy services is imperative when you’re on your way to full recovery. However, once you find therapists with experience and tech-reliance, you’ll know that you’re on your way to faster healing.
Have you ever thought about relying on exercise tutorials, customized rehabilitation plans, and progress-tracking tools on your way to achieving full recovery?
Today, you can check out a mobile app and use an online platform that is designed for physical therapy, to offer invaluable information to clients. Moreover, they can communicate through apps when they need advice and support.
Did You Know?
Physical therapy isn’t new! The Greek philosopher, Hippocrates used these techniques which gave birth to physical therapy in 435 B.C.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR technologies have created immersive and engaging experiences for physical therapy. When you need to have more real-life scenarios shown to you to improve your healing progress, therapists can use VR headsets. That allows the rehabilitation exercises to become more interactive and enjoyable for clients.
Likewise, thanks to AR therapists offer real-time visual feedback as exercises are still ongoing. That way, consumers are guaranteed to always have proper form and technique.
Robotics and Assistive Devices
Did you know that robotic instruments have become an indispensable part of physical therapy? Have you ever heard of exoskeletons?
They help those with mobility impairments regain strength and mobility. On top of that, robotic devices can assist in therapeutic interventions that one cannot do manually. That way, they can focus on customized care whereas technology aids in repetitive tasks. Soft robotics also improves gait and fine motor skills.
Electronic Health Records (EHR)
Electronic Health Records offer therapists the possibility to access and update client records digitally. That way, sharing information across healthcare providers becomes more convenient and much faster.
On top of that, the entire process becomes more coordinated. Using an EHR, is also more efficient in terms of billing, as it prevents billing errors. Some EHRs even allow you to upload your custom HEPs.
Video Games
If you think video games are only meant to offer fun in times of boredom, think again. Namely, many games were made to enhance mobility and exercise. People can play these games on VR machines, consoles, phone apps, and even wearable tech.
Many recoverees often lose the will to go to physical therapy and spend the majority of their day among other people learning to walk again or move their arms, head, and other body parts.
Staying at home becomes more desirable which is why friendly games have been designed. Through games, people become more active and choose to exercise instead of giving up on their recovery.
Final Thoughts
As years go by, we realize that technology is advancing immensely and we’re already seeing tech in almost every part of our daily routines, and the best news is that it’s also making our health benefit from it.
If you’re about to start physical therapy, give the mentioned inventions a chance and consult with your therapist about them. However, before choosing a tech gizmo to help you recover, think well about the mobile physiotherapy services you need and want to trust.
Always consult your doctor before taking any major actions, to be sure your fitness is in good hands and any future problems are avoided.
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