Feasibility and effectiveness of tele rehabilitation services for patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Scoping Review

Background and Aims: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system and a leading cause of disability in individuals aged ۲۰ to ۴۰. Recently, there has been a growing interest in utilizing innovative approaches such as telerehabilitation to supplement traditional rehabilitation services; however, the evidence regarding their feasibility and effectiveness remains limited and does not fully address the current needs of patients. This scoping review aims to gather published studies related to the feasibility and effectiveness of telerehabilitation services for patients with multiple sclerosis, conducted in ۲۰۲۴. Methods: In the present study, a scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to examine studies published in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases up to September ۲۹, ۲۰۲۴. To maximize article coverage, the reference lists of selected articles were also screened. The analysis included both descriptive summaries and inductive thematic analysis. Results: Of the ۲۷۰۰ articles initially identified, ۱۰ were ultimately included in the study. The findings indicated that telerehabilitation is feasible and accessible, leading to improvements in both clinical and non-clinical outcomes. Clinical improvements included enhanced physical function, reduced fatigue, and improved mobility, while non-clinical improvements encompassed psychological well-being and quality of life. This is particularly important because it enables individuals with MS-related mobility impairments to access necessary rehabilitation services regardless of geographical limitations. Rehacom and ERICA were the most frequently used telerehabilitation software platforms. These platforms offer suitable exercises and monitoring tools that facilitate patient engagement and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Technical issues were