mHealth, 2023 · DOI: 10.21037/mhealth-23-21 · Published: June 20, 2023
The editorial discusses the use of smartphone applications like Accessercise to promote physical activity among individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). It highlights the application's ability to provide capability, opportunity, and motivation for users to engage in physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviors. The piece differentiates between tele-assessment and tele-exercise, both delivered remotely. Tele-assessment involves remote evaluation, while tele-exercise offers remote physical training. These can be synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous (e.g., using recorded videos or messaging). The editorial also points out that incorporating tele-exercise aligns with the WHO's recommendation to explore innovative physical activity approaches that facilitate complete and effective participation for individuals with disabilities.
Telehealth, including tele-exercise and tele-assessment, can be effectively integrated into rehabilitation programs for individuals with SCI, providing remote access to physical activity and monitoring.
Tele-exercise addresses common barriers to exercise faced by individuals with SCI, such as lack of accessible facilities and transportation issues, by delivering home-based programs.
Tele-exercise should be considered in the development of physical activity guidelines to promote the inclusion of individuals with SCI in regular physical activity programs.