Home physical therapy versus telerehabilitation in improving motor function and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled trial

A recent study suggests that supervised home-based exercise programs can safely improve motor function, balance, and quality of life in individuals with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease. The study compared home physical therapy, where patients received in-person guidance from a therapist, to telerehabilitation, which used a mobile application with pre-designed exercise plans. Both approaches reduced motor symptoms, improved daily activities, and decreased fall risk, but the home physical therapy program showed better adherence and superior outcomes, especially for older participants aged 70 and above. Participants in both groups engaged in a four-week exercise program that included balance, strength, gait training, and aerobic exercises five times a week. However, those in the home therapy group saw more significant improvements in motor symptoms, balance, and step velocity, with a higher percentage completing at least half the sessions compared to the telerehabilitation group (98% vs. 87.8%). The study highlights home-based physical therapy as an effective option, particularly for older patients who may struggle with technology or have lower compliance with remote programs, while telerehabilitation offers a scalable alternative for broader access. Researchers emphasized the potential of home-based programs to prevent falls and disability in Parkinson’s patients but noted that longer-term studies are needed to fully evaluate their benefits.