Stroke remains a leading cause of disability in the United States, with approximately 795,000 Americans experiencing a stroke annually. For survivors, neurological recovery from a stroke often involves rigorous therapy to regain motor skills, speech, and cognitive abilities. Remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) for neurological recovery is a newer concept where patients can undergo stroke rehabilitation at home using remote therapeutic monitoring devices.
Remote Therapeutic Monitoring and Neurological Recovery
Remote therapeutic monitoring uses technology-based services and digital medical devices to monitor patients between rehabilitation therapy visits. In 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) introduced CPT codes to allow therapists to bill for services that collect and monitor non-physiological data from connected medical devices for musculoskeletal or respiratory conditions.
Remote therapeutic monitoring systems for neurological recovery enable continuous tracking of therapy progress. These systems collect and disseminate health data to healthcare providers, facilitating the assessment of pain, sleep patterns, adherence to home exercise programs, and performance by rehabilitation therapists. The feedback obtained from this data allows therapists to make timely adjustments to treatment plans.
RTM Devices for Neurological Telerehabilitation
Stroke rehabilitation equipment can provide real-time information to help the rehabilitation team monitor and track a patient’s progress and adjust treatment plans. For stroke survivors, this means receiving personalized care at home with rehabilitation tools like wearable devices and therapy-focused mobile apps. Additionally, Patients may use mobile apps to self-report information such as pain levels, functional limitations, or cognitive status.
Remote therapeutic monitoring devices can empower stroke survivors to maintain consistent therapy routines and provide clinicians with the data to optimize treatment. Some devices that are commonly used in remote therapeutic monitoring for neurological recovery are:
- Mobile apps: Provide structured therapy plans and progress tracking.
- Neurorehab devices: Devices like Flint Rehab’s FitMi encourage adherence to therapy and enable feedback for neuromuscular and cognitive rehabilitation.
- Speech and cognitive therapy apps: CT apps offer at-home speech therapy for recovery from stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury or those living with dementia and other neurological conditions.
- Virtual reality (VR): VR devices create an opportunity for patients to perform task-oriented exercises at home with telerehabilitation.
- Wearables: Smart watches can track physical activity and therapy adherence.
Benefits of Remote Therapeutic Monitoring in Stroke Recovery
RTM eliminates many barriers to rehabilitation. Patients no longer face challenges with transportation or geographical limitations. Additionally, RTM lessens the financial burden of frequent in-person visits. Patients save significant time and money by minimizing hospital stays and travel expenses without compromising care quality.
Instead, they can engage in therapy from their homes while maintaining regular communication with their care teams. Telerehabilitation providers may have their patients use remote therapeutic monitoring devices at home to promote active patient participation. These tools can often be gamified to encourage consistent practice and promote neuroplasticity. This is a mechanism of the nervous system’s ability to rewire itself and form new neural connections to compensate and adapt motor functions. Patients can also practice activities of daily living while in their own homes.
Research Supporting Remote Stroke Rehabilitation
Several studies validate the effectiveness of remote stroke rehabilitation using remote therapeutic monitoring. One systematic review of 12 randomized controlled trials found that telerehabilitation can be as effective as in-person therapy for improving motor function and quality of life. Additional research shows evidence of no difference in activities of daily living between post‐hospital discharge telerehabilitation and traditional care.
RTM encourages functional improvements in stroke patients, such as arm and leg mobility, balance, and independence in daily activities. Activity-based rehabilitation—where exercises are tailored to practical needs—has shown to be equally effective as in-person therapy for stroke recovery, functional outcomes, and patient satisfaction.
RTM’s ability to provide real-time feedback allows therapists to adapt exercises promptly, enhancing recovery outcomes. Patients appreciate the convenience and personalized remote monitoring approach, strengthening their motivation and therapy adherence. Caregivers also benefit from reduced burdens, gaining confidence and competence in supporting recovery efforts.
Understanding Remote Therapeutic Monitoring for Neurological Recovery
Remote therapeutic monitoring for neurological recovery represents a paradigm shift in stroke care. By bridging the gap between patients and clinicians, RTM delivers personalized, accessible, and effective therapy solutions. As technology advances, the potential for further innovations in remote stroke rehabilitation continues to grow, promising better outcomes for millions worldwide.
