Satisfaction and Reduction of Pain Following Tele-Physiotherapy of Patients with Musculoskeletal Disorders during the COVID- 19 Pandemic Disorders

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the rate of satisfaction and pain reduction in musculoskeletal patients by using tele-physiotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic infection disease. Methods: Eighteen patients with shoulder, knee, neck, and thoracic pain received some advice through video conferencing or video calls. All participants received different exercises based on the patient’s pathology or using some accessible modalities such as cold or hot packs. Interventions were followed by online platforms such as chat/massage and video conferencing by WhatsApp or Telegram program. Pain intensity was assessed by the Numeric Rating Scale, and satisfaction was evaluated by the Telehealth Satisfaction Questionnaire. Results: Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction of pain (p< 0.001), with a high effect size = 2.9. The rate of satisfaction of patients was detected high about all questions. Conclusion: This study suggests that tele-physiotherapy can effectively reduce pain and increase satisfaction during pandemic infected disease or for patients in remote areas.