A Randomized Controlled Trial to Study the Effectiveness of Interactive, Virtual Tele-Physiotherapy for Improving Motor Function and Quality of Life in Stroke Patients: A Study Protocol

Introduction: Telephysiotherapy (TPT) is provision of physiotherapy services using telecommunication technology such as audio call or video call to facilitate the physiotherapy management of patients within their own homes. In the absence of which the patients may have to discontinue physiotherapy treatment that may result into poor motor outcomes leading to deterioration of the quality of life (QoL).

Methodology: This is a study protocol designed to study the effectiveness of TPT intervention in Stroke patients. The objective is to study whether TPT is effective for Stroke Rehabilitation in improving motor function and quality of life. An exercise protocol will be administered to patients suffering from mild to moderate stroke those grading less than or equal to 4 on a Modified Rankin Scale (mRS=<4). A total 40 patients will be recruited in the study, divided into 2 groups –Group A and Group B, where Group A will receive the exercise therapy through Tele Physiotherapy & Group B will receive Out-Patient-Based (OPD-based) Physiotherapy. Participants of both the groups will be called to the OPD at the baseline and at the end of 6 weeks intervention. The patients shall be assessed at the baseline and at the end of intervention using Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Stroke Specific Quality Of Life scale (SS-QOL) to evaluate their motor function, gait, functional status and quality of life respectively.

Ethical Considerations: Approval from the Institutional Ethics committee of the institute is obtained. Participation in study will be voluntary and only the patients willing to give the written informed consent will be recruited for the study.

Results: The results of the study will be published and disseminated in peer-reviewed journals.