ABSTRACT

Objective : This research aimed to examine the effect of telerehabilitation on the upper-limb motor functions and equilibrioception (sense of balance) by providing mobile phones to chronic stroke patients. Methods : This research was conducted on 20 chronic stroke patients. The patients were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. Both groups participated in a self-exercise program at home 5 times per week for 8 weeks. Intervention through the use of a mobile phone was provided to the experimental group, and a daily self-check list was completed by the control group. The patients’functional recovery pre- and post-intervention was measured through FMA: An upper-limb function subtest, BBS, Box & block, MAL, and MBI. Results : As a result of providing telerehabilitation using mobile phones, the experimental group showed significant improvements in their upper-limb functionality, equilibrioception, and activities of daily living (p<.05). The results also showed significant differences in their performance and satisfaction (p<.05) compared to the control group. Conclusion : This study demonstrated the effectiveness of telerehabilitation on the functional recovery of chronic stroke patients by showing an improved performance of upper-limb functionality, equilibrioception, and activities of daily living. Therefore, the results may be applied to the use of telerehabilitation in a clinical setting.