Home-based Rehabilitation Group Research Articles

Comparative Effectiveness of Supervised and Home-Based Rehabilitation after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Competitive Athletes.

Background: After the increasingly common anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) procedure in competitive athletes, rehabilitation is crucial for facilitating a timely return to sports (RTS) and preventing re-injury. This pilot study investigates the patient-reported outcomes of postoperative rehabilitation in competitive athletes, comparing supervised rehabilitation (SVR) and home-based rehabilitation (HBR). Methods: After ACLR, 60 (out of 74 screened) athletes were recruited and equally divided into HBR and SVR groups using non-probability convenience sampling, with each group comprising 15 males and 15 females. The rehabilitation outcomes in the respective groups were evaluated at 8 months using measures (Tegner Activity Scale [TAS], International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee form [IKDC-SKF], ACL Return to Sport after Injury [ACL-RSI]) and objective parameters (isometric muscle strength, hamstring/quadricep asymmetry). RTS was evaluated at 9 months, with ACL re-injury rates recorded approximately 6 months post-RTS. Results: Both groups exhibited decreased TAS scores (HBR: 8 to 6, SVR: 8 to 7), with the SVR group demonstrating superior postoperative IKDC-SKF scores (81.82 vs. 68.43) and lower ACL-RSI scores (49.46 vs. 55.25). Isometric and isokinetic muscle strength, along with asymmetry values, was higher in the SVR group 8 months post-ACLR (p < 0.05). The SVR group showed a higher RTS rate to the same level (76.6% vs. 53.3%), while the re-injury rate was the same in both the rehabilitation groups (3.3%). Conclusions: Although both rehabilitation approaches yielded comparable outcomes, SVR may demonstrate some superior biomechanical improvements in athletes, resulting in a higher RTS rate. However, the psychological outcomes and re-injury rates did not significantly differ between the groups, emphasizing the need to address individual psychological needs during rehabilitation. Further investigation is recommended with a larger sample size to address the differences of gender among competitive athletes.

Effects of different rehabilitation modality on cardiopulmonary function in patients with acute coronary syndrome after revascularization.

To investigate the effects of different rehabilitation modalities on cardiopulmonary function in patients with acute coronary syndrome after revascularization. Two randomized controlled trials were conducted. All patients were stable for more than 48 h and less than 1 week after revascularization for acute coronary syndrome and were randomly assigned to Group A (home-based rehabilitation group) or Group B (center guided home-based rehabilitation group). The cardiopulmonary exercise test was mainly performed before and 3 months after cardiac rehabilitation (at the end of intervention). The primary endpoints of the study were peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), and the secondary endpoints were maximum metabolic equivalents (METs), anaerobic threshold exercise load (Load AT), maximal workload (Load max), and anaerobic threshold oxygen uptake (VO2 AT). A total of 106 patients were included in the study, with 47 patients in Group A (with 6 losses) and 50 patients in Group B (with 3 losses). There were no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),cardiovascular risk factors. In Group A, no significant differences in CPET indices were observed before and after the intervention. In Group B, values of maximum metabolic equivalents (METs), peak heart rate (PHR), anaerobic threshold exercise load (Load AT), maximal workload (Load max), maximum ventilation per minute (VE max), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), anaerobic threshold oxygen uptake (VO2 AT) and maximum oxygen pulse (VO2/HRmax) were higher than those before the intervention (P < 0.05). In addition, METs (max), Load AT, Load max, VO2 AT, and VO2peak in Group B were higher than those in group A (P < 0.05). The change rates of VO2peak, METs(max), PHR, Load max, VO2 AT, VE max, VO2/HR(max) in the two groups were significantly different before and after intervention (P < 0.05). Cardiac exercise rehabilitation is helpful for improving patients' cardiopulmonary endurance and quality of life. Moreover, rehabilitation modalities with regular hospital guidance can improve cardiopulmonary function in a shorter period,which seems to be more effective than a complete home-based rehabilitation model. http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier (ChiCTR2400081034).

COMPARING INPATIENT REHABILITATION AND HOME-BASED REHABILITATION PRACTICES FOLLOWING ACUTE STROKE: A PROSPECTIVE CONTROLLED STUDY

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate whether home-based rehabilitation (HBR) is as effective as inpatient rehabilitation in patients with acute stroke as well as to identify patients at increased risk of mortality/morbidity during rehabilitation.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present study included 64 patients with acute stroke who were referred from the neurology service and intensive care units to an inpatient rehabilitation unit (n=28) or HBR programs (n=36). Brunnstrom motor stages, Functional Independence Measure and Stroke Impact Scale scores of all patients were recorded before treatment and 12 weeks after therapy. Evaluation parameters were compared between 2 groups. The presence of any morbidity/mortality that developed during rehabilitation period were recorded. Afterward, all the patients were divided into 3 groups as inpatient, HBR and patients with mortality/morbidity and evaluation parameters before therapy were compared among the groups.RESULTS: At third month, while there was no significant change in all quality of life subscales following HBR, the improvement in all quality of life subscales following inpatient rehabilitation, except for the memory and emotion subscales were significant. At the end of 12th week; 5 (13.90%) of the 36 patients were died, and another 5 (13.90%) had developed a new cerebrovascular disease in HBR group. The memory, communication and emotion subscales scores of 10 patients with mortality/morbidity were significantly lower than the patients without mortality/morbidity in other 2 groups.CONCLUSIONS: To better manage difficult clinical encounters, the physician needs to well identify acute stroke patients who will be referred to inpatient rehabilitation or home exercise group. When choosing a rehabilitation program, physicians may also consider the mortality/morbidity related to memory, communication and emotional scores.

Home-Based Versus Outpatient-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The prevalence of coronary heart disease continues to increase in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Despite advances in cardiac surgery, there are no established outpatient cardiac rehabilitation programs in the KSA. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of home-based cardiac rehabilitation compared with outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation and usual care for patients who are post-coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This 3-arm, single-blind, randomized controlled trial was carried out at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, KSA. A total of 82 patients post-coronary artery bypass graft surgery were randomized and 73 patients completed the study. Recruited patients were distributed to home-based cardiac rehabilitation (n = 24), outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation (n = 25), or usual care (control group) (n = 24). Participants in the intervention groups completed an individualized exercise program for 2 hours, 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The control group followed usual care (no intervention). The incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT), metabolic equivalence task, Short Form-36, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were measured at baseline, postintervention, and after a 4-week follow-up period. Postintervention, there was an increase in mean ISWT score from baseline in both the home-based cardiac rehabilitation and outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation groups (66 [0.58] m and 71 [9.19] m, respectively). No difference was observed in the control group. At the 4-week follow-up, both intervention groups showed statistically significant improvements in all outcome measures (ISWT, metabolic equivalence tasks, HADS-A, HADS-D, and Short Form-36) compared with baseline (all P < .001). The home-based cardiac rehabilitation group showed statistically continuous improvement compared with the outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation group. The control group did not show any significant changes across time in outcome measures. Home-based cardiac rehabilitation is as effective as outpatient-based cardiac rehabilitation. Home-based cardiac rehabilitation appears to be more effective at maintaining improvements follow the end of the intervention.

Effectiveness of Multicomponent Home-Based Rehabilitation in Elderly Patients after Hip Fracture Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This randomized controlled study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of an 8-week personalized multicomponent home-based rehabilitation (MHR) program by comparing it with a home exercise program after discharge. Forty patients (≥60 years old) who underwent hip surgery were randomly assigned to multicomponent home-based rehabilitation (MHR) and home exercise groups. The MHR program included strength, endurance, balance, and breathing exercises; modifications to the home environment; education on assistive device use; pressure ulcer care; nutrition management; and motivational counseling. The MHR group received 24 visits from rehabilitation staff for 8 weeks (3 times a week), while the home exercise group received home exercises focusing on strengthening described in the leaflet. The rehabilitation staff prescribed the intensity of exercise at the first visit, and the home exercise group exercised without supervision after that for 8 weeks. Both groups received a 10-min phone call once a week for overall counseling to ensure high adherence to home exercises. Among the 40 participants, 29 (72.5%) completed the trial. The primary outcomes were balance and mobility. Balance was assessed using the functional reach test (FRT), and the timed up-and-go test (TUG) was used to assess balance and mobility. Data were analyzed using the intention-to-treat principle. The MHR group showed significant improvement compared to the home exercise group for FRT (mean difference (MD) 4.4 cm; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0 to 7.8) and TUG (MD: −4.2 s; 95% CI −8.0 to −0.3) after 8 weeks of intervention. Subjective pain and physical components of general health-related quality of life also improved significantly in the MHR group. No serious adverse events related to the interventions were observed. The eight-week of MHR program can effectively improve balance and mobility.

Stabilometric assessments of two rehabilitation protocols on postural parameters after posterior total hip arthroplasty: A prospective randomized comparative study

IntroductionAfter total hip arthroplasty (THA), patients continue to have muscular, functional and postural deficits. The literature seems to support the use of postoperative rehabilitation, especially self-directed programs. However, there is no set protocol for the management of postural disorders. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare postural parameters of a group of patients who underwent posterior THA followed by 2 different types of rehabilitation (stabilometric platform (SP) and home-based self-directed protocols) with a control group of operated patients who did not undergo rehabilitation and a control group of age-matched asymptomatic subjects. HypothesisWe hypothesized that rehabilitation would normalize the stabilometric parameters. Patients and MethodsA total of 67 subjects were enrolled in this study (mean age 67.85±1.22years) and divided into 4 groups. Forty-one of these subjects had undergone a posterior THA were randomly assigned between D10 and D21 to one of the following 3 groups: no rehabilitation control group (THACG=14), supervised rehabilitation with a stabilometric platform group (RSPG=16), and a self-directed home-based rehabilitation group (SDHRG=11). The 4th group was a control group made up of 26 age-matched asymptomatic nonoperated subjects (CG55-80). These rehabilitation protocols lasted 3weeks. At the end of the 3weeks, the groups performed the same stabilometric single leg and double leg stance tests (considering lower limb dominance) on an SP. ResultsNo significant differences were observed between groups in the bipedal stance, except between the CG55-80 and the THACG, where a higher energy expenditure was observed in the THACG during the static stance with eyes open (EO) and eyes closed (EC): increase in the path length (Plength) covered by the center of pressure (COP) (EO: p=01; EC: p=03) and the average velocity (Vavg) of the COP (EO: p=01; EC: p=03). These differences were not observed in the SDHRG and RSPG whether they were compared with one another or with both control groups. In the unipedal stance, subjects in the RSPG and SDHRG showed greater muscle activity in the anterior and posterior chains and hip abductors, and used less energy to maintain the stance than those in the CG55-80, regardless of lower limb dominance: decrease in the mediolateral range of COP displacement (Xrange) (hip abductor muscles) (p=02) and anteroposterior range of COP displacement (Yrange) (anterior and posterior chains) (p=3.49.10−3), 95% confidence ellipse area (Earea) of COP data (p=1.47.10−3), Plength (p=04) and Vavg (p=04). The RSPG had a smaller Earea than the SDHRG (p=04), demonstrating a better postural stability during the unipedal stance performed on the dominant operated leg. DiscussionOur results were consistent with the literature on the benefits of rehabilitation after THA, thus confirming our hypothesis that rehabilitation normalized stabilometric parameters between D31-D45, depending on the subjects. These results provide new information regarding rehabilitation techniques to be implemented postoperatively after a THA. A home-based self-directed rehabilitation program is just as effective as an SP program in managing postural disorders. Level of EvidenceII; randomized controlled trial with low statistical power.

Effects Supervised Versus Home-Based Rehabilitation on Functional Outcome after Surgical Fixation

Background: The focus for early postoperative motion in stable fixation is aimed at good restoration of joint anatomy in relation to movements, strength, and joint play and to compare the functional outcomes after the surgical repair of distal humerus fractures in contrast with supervised and home-based rehabilitation. Aim: To provide guidelines to effectively manage the post-operative functional complications. Method: Sixty-four patients with the distal humerus fractures were treated surgically, participated in the study at the mean follow up of 6 months. Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disabilities of the Arm shoulder and Hand (DASH), Visual Analogue Scale and Goniometer, radiographic evaluation was done to assess outcomes at baseline (2nd week after cast removal), 10th week &amp;6th month post-operative. Results: Among 60 patients, average MEPS, DASH, Arc of motion was significantly better in supervised rehabilitation group in contrast with home-based rehabilitation group (p=0.00, CI 95%). Average healing time observed on radiographs was 10-12 weeks. The overall complication rate was only 4.7%, while most of the minor complications resolved without any intervention. Conclusions: Outcomes of distal humerus fractures were good to excellent in both groups, whereas supervised rehabilitation provided better outcomes in context with ranger of motion, mobility, and functionality. Keywords: Olecranon Osteotomy, Elbow Fractures, Functional outcome, Elbow Rehabilitation

Supervised Rehabilitation May Lead to Better Outcome than Home-Based Rehabilitation Up to 1 Year after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background and objectives: Previous studies consistently found no significant difference between supervised and home-based rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). However, the function of the nonoperative knee, hamstring strength at deep flexion, and neuromuscular control have been overlooked. This prospective observational study was performed to investigate the outcomes after ACLR in operative and nonoperative knees between supervised and home-based rehabilitations. Materials and Methods: After surgery, instructional videos demonstrating the rehabilitation process and exercises were provided for the home-based rehabilitation group. The supervised rehabilitation group visited our sports medicine center and physical therapists followed up all patients during the entire duration of the study. Isokinetic muscle strength and neuromuscular control (acceleration time (AT) and overall stability index (OSI)) of both operative and nonoperative knees, as well as patient-reported knee function (Lysholm score), were measured and compared between the two groups 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. Results: The supervised rehabilitation group showed higher muscle strength of hamstring and quadriceps in nonoperative knees at 6 months (hamstring, p = 0.033; quadriceps, p = 0.045) and higher hamstring strength in operative and nonoperative knees at 1 year (operative knees, p = 0.035; nonoperative knees, p = 0.010) than the home-based rehabilitation group. At 6 months and 1 year, OSIs in operative and nonoperative knees were significantly better in the supervised rehabilitation group than in the home-based rehabilitation group (operative knees, p < 0.001, p < 0.001; nonoperative knees, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, at 6 months and 1 year, respectively). At 1 year, the supervised rehabilitation group also demonstrated faster AT of the hamstrings (operative knees, p = 0.016; nonoperative knees, p = 0.036). Lysholm scores gradually improved in both groups over 1 year; however, the supervised rehabilitation group showed higher scores at 1 year (87.3 ± 5.8 vs. 75.6 ± 15.1, p = 0.016). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that supervised rehabilitation may offer additional benefits in improving muscle strength, neuromuscular control, and patient-reported knee function compared with home-based rehabilitation up to 1 year after ACLR.

Intensive Inpatient vs. Home-Based Rehabilitation After Hip Fracture in the Elderly Population.

Background: As the population ages, the rate of hip fractures and the need for rehabilitation increases. Home-based rehabilitation (HBR) is an alternative to classic inpatient rehabilitation (IR), which is an expensive framework with non-negligible risks.Methods: A retrospective study of patients 65 years and above following surgery to repair a hip fracture who underwent HBR or IR between 2016 and 2019. The two rehabilitation frameworks were compared for rehabilitation outcome and factors predicting successful rehabilitation. The outcome was determined with the Montebello Rehabilitation Factor Score-Revised (MRFS-R).Results: Data were collected for 235 patients over 3 years. The mean age was 81.3 ± 8.0 and 172 (73.3%) were women. Of these, 138 underwent IR and 97 HBR. The HBR group had better family support and fewer lived alone. There were also differences in the type of fracture and surgery. The medical condition of the IR group was more complex, as reflected in a higher Charlson's comorbidity scores, higher rates for delirium and more infectious complications, a lower Norton score, lower serum hemoglobin, and albumin levels, and higher serum creatinine and urea levels. It also had a more significant functional decline after surgery and required a longer rehabilitation period. However, no difference was found in the rehabilitation outcomes between the two groups (MRFS-R ≥ 50). The independent predictors for rehabilitation in the IR group were serum albumin level, comorbidity, and cognitive state. There were no independent predictors in the HBR group.Conclusions: In this retrospective study, there was no significant difference in short-term rehabilitation outcomes between the HBR and IR groups event though the patients in the IR group were medically more complex. This result should be taken into account when planning rehabilitation services after hip fracture and tailoring rehabilitation frameworks to patients.

Comparing the effects of home-based exercise rehabilitation and center based Cardiac rehabilitation on Liver Enzymes of the patients with coronary Artery disease

Background: Liver enzymes are known markers for liver dysfunction which can be associated with the risk of heart disease. This study aimed to compare the effects of the home-based exercise rehabilitation and center-based CR on changes in liver enzymes of patients with heart failure. Methods: In a semi-experimental study, 40 patients (mean age, 59 ± 6.28 years) voluntarily were divided into 3 groups: home-based exercise rehabilitation (n=13), centre –based CR (n=15) and control (n=12). Liver enzymes (Aspartat aminotransferaz (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and Creatine phosphokinase (CPK)) were measured at baseline and after 2 months of CR. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) in P < 0.05 level. Results: For the centre –based CR group, the levels of LDH and CPK after 2 months were reduced (P<0/05), While there were no significant differences in AST, ALT and ALP levels. Levels of ALT significantly reduce in the home-based exercise rehabilitation group. Conclusion: CR may have been reduce some of the liver enzymes through increased cardiac output and insulin sensitivity and improved perfusion.

Treatment efficacy of a hybrid home-based rehabilitation intervention for patients with stroke: A randomized crossover trial

This study aimed to investigate the treatment effects of a hybrid home-based rehabilitation program combining mirror therapy and task-specific training compared with clinic-based rehabilitation in stroke patients. This was a single-blinded, 2-sequence, 2-period, crossover-designed study. The participants were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 order conditions: home-based rehabilitation first or clinic-based rehabilitation first. During each period, each participant received 12 treatment sessions, with a 4-week washout phase between the 2 periods. Both the home-based and clinic-based rehabilitation groups received 30 to 45 minutes of mirror therapy, followed by 45 to 60 minutes of functional task training, at each 90-min session. Before the interventions began, the client-centered Canadian Occupational Performance Measure was administered to help identify individual tasks and goals of patients. Outcome measures were selected based on the ICF. Outcomes of impairment level were the Fugl–Meyer Assessment, Box and Block Test, and Revised Nottingham Sensory Assessment. Outcomes of activity and participation levels included the Motor Activity Log, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, and EuroQoL-5D Questionnaire. A total of 24 and 18 patients with stroke completed the study during the intervention period 1 and 2, respectively. Pretest analyses showed that there was no significant evidence of carryover effect. Home-based rehabilitation resulted in significantly greater improvements on the amount of use subscale of Motor Activity Log ( P = 0.01) than clinic-based rehabilitation. Clinic-based rehabilitation group had better benefits on the health index measured by the EuroQoL-5D Questionnaire ( P = 0.02) than home-based rehabilitation. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups on the other outcomes. This study is unique in developing a hybrid home-based stroke rehabilitation intervention with patient-oriented goals. The home-based and clinic-based rehabilitation groups had comparable benefits in the outcomes of impairment level but showed differential effects in the outcomes of activity and participation levels.

Effects of Home-Based Versus Clinic-Based Rehabilitation Combining Mirror Therapy and Task-Specific Training for Patients With Stroke: A Randomized Crossover Trial

ObjectiveWe investigated the treatment effects of a home-based rehabilitation program compared with clinic-based rehabilitation in patients with stroke. DesignA single-blinded, 2-sequence, 2-period, crossover-designed study. SettingRehabilitation clinics and participant’s home environment. ParticipantsIndividuals with disabilities poststroke. InterventionsDuring each intervention period, each participant received 12 training sessions, with a 4-week washout phase between the 2 periods. Participants were randomly allocated to home-based rehabilitation first or clinic-based rehabilitation first. Intervention protocols included mirror therapy and task-specific training. Main Outcome MeasuresOutcome measures were selected based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Outcomes of impairment level were the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Box and Block Test, and Revised Nottingham Sensory Assessment. Outcomes of activity and participation levels included the Motor Activity Log, 10-meter walk test, sit-to-stand test, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, and EuroQoL-5D Questionnaire. ResultsPretest analyses showed no significant evidence of carryover effect. Home-based rehabilitation resulted in significantly greater improvements on the Motor Activity Log amount of use subscale (P=.01) and the sit-to-stand test (P=.03) than clinic-based rehabilitation. The clinic-based rehabilitation group had better benefits on the health index measured by the EuroQoL-5D Questionnaire (P=.02) than the home-based rehabilitation group. Differences between the 2 groups on the other outcomes were not statistically significant. ConclusionsThe home-based and clinic-based rehabilitation groups had comparable benefits in the outcomes of impairment level but showed differential effects in the outcomes of activity and participation levels.

Does home-based pulmonary rehabilitation improve functional capacity, peripheral muscle strength and quality of life in patients with bronchiectasis compared to standard care?

BackgroundHome-based pulmonary rehabilitation is a promising intervention that may help patients to overcome the barriers to undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. However, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation has not yet been investigated in patients with bronchiectasis. ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with bronchiectasis. MethodsAn open-label, randomized controlled trial with 48 adult patients with bronchiectasis will be conducted. Interventions: The program will consist of three sessions weekly over a period of 8 weeks. Aerobic exercise will consist of stepping on a platform for 20min (intensity: 60–80% of the maximum stepping rate in incremental step test). Resistance training will be carried out using an elastic band for the following muscles: quadriceps, hamstrings, deltoids, and biceps brachii (load: 70% of maximum voluntary isometric contraction). Control: The patients will receive an educational manual and a recommendation to walk three times a week for 30min. All patients will receive a weekly phone call to answer questions and to guide the practice of physical activity. The home-based pulmonary rehabilitation group also will receive a home visit every 15 days. Main outcome measures: incremental shuttle walk test, quality of life, peripheral muscle strength, endurance shuttle walk test, incremental step test, dyspnea, and physical activity in daily life. The assessments will be undertaken at baseline, after the intervention, and 8 months after randomization. DiscussionThe findings of this study will determine the clinical benefits of home-based pulmonary rehabilitation and will contribute to future guidelines for patients with bronchiectasis.Trial registration:www.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02731482). https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S00060X6&selectaction=Edit&uid=U00028HR&ts=2&cx=1jbszg

Effects of Home-based Telesupervising Rehabilitation on Physical Function for Stroke Survivors with Hemiplegia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The aims of this work were to evaluate the effects of home-based telesupervising rehabilitation on physical function for stroke survivors with hemiplegia and to determine if the rehabilitation therapy can relieve the burden on caregivers. This study is a randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded trial. Stroke survivors were randomly assigned to either home-based telesupervising rehabilitation group or conventional rehabilitation group to receive physical exercise and electromyography-triggered neuromuscular stimulation. Modified Barthel Index, Berg Balance Scale, modified Rankin Scale, Caregiver Strain Index, root mean square of extensor carpi radialis longus and tibialis anterior muscle were measured at 3 time points: baseline, postintervention (12 weeks), and 12-week follow-up (24 weeks). Both the home-based telerehabilitation and conventional rehabilitation groups demonstrated significant effects within groups over the 3 time points in increasing Modified Barthel Index, Berg Balance Scale, and root mean square value of extensor carpi radialis longus and tibialis anterior, as well as decreasing Caregiver Strain Index (P < 0.001), but none of the between-group differences was significant. For modified Rankin Scale, the percentage of participants of grades 0 and 1 in 2 groups increased over time without significant difference between the groups. Home-based telesupervising rehabilitation is most likely as effective as the conventional outpatient rehabilitation for improving functional recovery in stroke survivors and could ease the burden of caregivers as conventional rehabilitation.

Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Subjects With COPD: A Randomized Study.

The aim of this study was to develop an efficient, low-cost, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program and to evaluate the impact of the program on exercise as measured by the 6-min walk test (6MWT) and treadmill endurance test. Twenty-nine subjects with COPD (FEV1 = 62.4 ± 10.7% of predicted, 62.4 ± 10.7 y old) were included in a randomized and prospective pulmonary rehabilitation program, and they performed 24 sessions, 5 d/week. The control group included 15 subjects (FEV1 = 54 ± 26.2% of predicted, 65.3 ± 8 y old). They were evaluated pre-intervention and post-intervention by the 6MWT, St George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), treadmill endurance test, and spirometry. The home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program consisted of walking for 40 min along a corridor or a street, climbing stairs for 15 min, and exercising the arms with an oil can (1 kg) using diagonal movements for 15 min. Subjects were called once each week for encouragement and verification of adherence. Both groups received the usual pharmacologic treatment; in addition, the control group received a telephone call without guidance on exercise. The 2 groups were similar regarding age, FEV1, and FVC. The home-based pulmonary rehabilitation group increased by 65 m in the 6MWT (P < .05) and 316.6 ± 81.8 m in the endurance test (P < .05) and decreased by > 4 units in all SGRQ domains. The control group showed no difference in any variable. This study demonstrates that a simple, low-cost, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program adapted to real-life situations leads to improvement in exercise capacity and quality of life.

Home-based general versus center-based selective rehabilitation in patients with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of home-based and supervised center-based selective rehabilitation in patients with Grade 1 to 3 posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). The study included 49 subjects diagnosed with PTTD and referred to physiotherapy by an orthopedic surgeon. Subjects were randomly assigned into a home-based rehabilitation (21 cases; mean age: 33.56 ± 17.59) group or center-based rehabilitation (28 cases; mean age: 28.57 ± 14.74 years). The patients in the home-based rehabilitation group followed a home program of cold application, strengthening exercises for the posterior tibial and intrinsic muscles, and stretching in the subtalar neutral position. The patients in the center-based rehabilitation group followed a selective, supervised treatment consisting of the home protocol plus re-education of the non-functional tibialis posterior, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation methods, electrical stimulation, joint mobilization and taping techniques. Both groups received appropriate orthotics. All subjects were assessed before and after treatment for pain, muscle strength, foot function index (FFI) scores and specific tests for PTTD. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between pre- and post-treatment results for pain, first metatarsophalangeal angle, forefoot abduction angle, FFI scores and foot and ankle muscle strengths in the center-based group and for the tibialis posterior muscle strength in the home-based group (p<0.05). Intergroup comparison, however, showed no differences between the groups at the end of the treatment program with the exception of posterior tibial muscle strength (p<0.05). Home- and center-based forms of rehabilitation seem to be equally effective in relieving pain and improving functional outcome in patients with Grade 1 to 3 PTTD. A patient-selective, supervised program may provide a better improvement in tibialis posterior strength than home-based rehabilitation.

The Effectiveness of Nurse-Led, Home-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Patients with COPD in Turkey

The goal of this study was to determine the effectiveness of nurse-led, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with stage 3 or 4 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to the Global Initiative for COPD (GOLD) staging system. The study consisted of 32 patients--a nurse-led, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation group (16) and a control group (16). In the rehabilitation program, patients received education about their diseases and performed breathing exercises and lower- and upper-extremity aerobic exercises at their homes during the 3-month period of the study. There was meaningful improvement in the rehabilitation group in terms of pulmonary function tests (FEV1 % predicted value), artery blood gases (PaCO2), quality of life, dyspnea, and functional capacity. On the other hand, no meaningful change was observed in the control group. The study showed that the nurse-led, home-based pulmonary rehabilitation program had positive effects on the patients with COPD.

Rehabilitation of older patients: day hospital compared with rehabilitation at home. A randomised controlled trial

To test the hypotheses that older people and their informal carers are not disadvantaged by home-based rehabilitation (HBR) relative to day hospital rehabilitation (DHR) and that HBR is less costly. Two-arm randomised controlled trial. Four trusts in England providing both HBR and DHR. Clinical staff reviewed consecutive referrals to identify subjects who were potentially suitable for randomisation according to the defined inclusion criteria. Patients were randomised to receive either HBR or DHR. The primary outcome measure was the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living (NEADL) scale. Secondary outcome measures included the EuroQol 5 dimensions (EQ-5D), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Therapy Outcome Measures (TOMs), hospital admissions and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-30) for carers. Overall, 89 subjects were randomised and 42 received rehabilitation in each arm of the trial. At the primary end point of 6 months there were 32 and 33 patients in the HBR and DHR arms respectively. Estimated mean scores on the NEADL scale at 6 months, after adjustment for baseline, were not significantly in favour of either HBR or DHR [DHR 30.78 (SD 15.01), HBR 32.11 (SD 16.89), p = 0.37; mean difference -2.139 (95% CI -6.870 to 2.592)]. Analysis of the non-inferiority of HBR over DHR using a 'non-inferiority' limit (10%) applied to the confidence interval estimates for the different outcome measures at 6 months' follow-up demonstrated non-inferiority for the NEADL scale, EQ-5D and HADS anxiety scale and some advantage for HBR on the HADS depression scale, of borderline statistical significance. Similar results were seen at 3 and 12 months' follow-up, with a statistically significant difference in the mean EQ-5D(index) score in favour of DHR at 3 months (p = 0.047). At the end of rehabilitation, a greater proportion of the DHR group showed a positive direction of change from their initial assessment with respect to therapist-rated clinical outcomes; however, a lower proportion of HBR patients showed a negative direction of change and, overall, median scores on the TOMs scales did not differ between the two groups. Fewer patients in the HBR group were admitted to hospital on any occasion over the 12-month observation period [18 (43%) versus 22 (52%)]; however, this difference was not statistically significant. The psychological well-being of patients' carers, measured at 3, 6 and 12 months, was unaffected by whether rehabilitation took place at day hospital or at home. As the primary outcome measure and EQ-5D(index) scores at 6 months showed no significant differences between the two arms of the trial, a cost-minimisation analysis was undertaken. Neither the public costs nor the total costs at the 6-month follow-up point (an average of 213 days' total follow-up) or the 12-month follow-up point (an average of 395 days' total follow-up) were significantly different between the groups. Compared with DHR, providing rehabilitation in patients' own homes confers no particular disadvantage for patients and carers. The cost of providing HBR does not appear to be significantly different from that of providing DHR. Rehabilitation providers and purchasers need to consider the place of care in the light of local needs, to provide the benefits of both kinds of services. Caution is required when interpreting the results of the RCT because a large proportion of potentially eligible subjects were not recruited to the trial, the required sample size was not achieved and there was a relatively large loss to follow-up. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN71801032.

Inpatient Compared with Home-Based Rehabilitation Following Primary Unilateral Total Hip or Knee Replacement: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Home-based rehabilitation is increasingly utilized to reduce health-care costs; however, with a shorter hospital stay, the possibility arises for an increase in adverse clinical outcomes. We evaluated the effectiveness and cost of care of home-based compared with inpatient rehabilitation following primary total hip or knee joint replacement. We randomized 234 patients, using block randomization techniques, to either home-based or inpatient rehabilitation following total joint replacement. All patients followed standardized care pathways and were evaluated, with use of validated outcome measures (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index [WOMAC], Short Form-36, and patient satisfaction), prior to surgery and at three and twelve months following surgery. The primary outcome was the WOMAC function score at three months after surgery. The mean length of stay (and standard deviation) in the acute care hospital was 6.3 +/- 2.5 days for the group designated for inpatient rehabilitation prior to transfer to that facility compared with 7.0 +/- 3.0 days for the home-based rehabilitation group prior to discharge home (p = 0.06). The mean length of stay in inpatient rehabilitation was 17.7 +/- 8.6 days. The mean number of postoperative home-based rehabilitation visits was eight. The prevalence of postoperative complications up to twelve months postoperatively was similar in both groups, which each had a 2% rate of dislocation and a 3% rate of clinically important deep venous thrombosis. The prevalence of infection was 0% in the home-based group and 2% in the inpatient group. None of these differences was clinically important. Both groups showed substantial improvements at three and twelve months, with no significant differences between the groups with respect to WOMAC, Short Form-36, or patient satisfaction scores (p > 0.05). The total episode-of-care costs (in Canadian dollars) for the inpatient rehabilitation and home-based rehabilitation arms were $14,532 and $11,082, respectively (p < 0.01). Despite concerns about early hospital discharge, there was no difference in pain, functional outcomes, or patient satisfaction between the group that received home-based rehabilitation and the group that had inpatient rehabilitation. On the basis of our findings, we recommend the use of a home-based rehabilitation protocol following elective primary total hip or knee replacement as it is the more cost-effective strategy.

Health care and social welfare costs in home‐based and hospital‐based rehabilitation after stroke

During the 1990s most western European and Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries experienced financial difficulties and were forced to cut back on or restrain health care expenditures. Home rehabilitation has received attention in recent years because of its potential for cost containment. Often forgotten, however, is the redistribution of costs from one caregiver to another. The aim of this study was to analyse whether a redistribution of costs occurs between health care providers (the County councils) and social welfare providers (the municipalities) in a comparison of home-based rehabilitation and hospital-based rehabilitation after stroke. The study population included 123 patients, 53 in the home-based rehabilitation group and 68 in the hospital-based rehabilitation group. The patients were followed up at 6 and 12 months after onset of stroke. Resource use over a 12-month period included acute hospital care, in-hospital rehabilitation, home rehabilitation and use of home-help service as well as nursing home living. The hospital-based rehabilitation group had significantly fewer hospitalization days after a decision was made about rehabilitation at the acute care ward and consequently the cost for the acute care period was significantly lower. The cost for the rehabilitation period was significantly lower in the home-based rehabilitation group. However, the cost for home help service was significantly higher in the home-based rehabilitation group. The total costs for the care episode did not differ between the two groups. The main finding of this study is that there seems to occur a redistribution of costs between health care providers and social welfare providers in home rehabilitation after stroke in a group of patients with mixed degree of impairment.