E-rehabilitation solution for rotator cuff syndrome in covid-19 pandemic era

Lakhani, A.; Sharma, E.; Khadayat, S.

Objectives: COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected the health sector in the whole world. Routine OPDs including rehabilitation centers are partially functional to minimize the risk of cross-infection. In elderly patients, rotator cuff syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain and daily physiotherapy is the main mode of management. To minimize the risk of cross-infection (COVID-19), we introduced E-rehabilitation services via various mobile apps to our patients. In developing countries like India, E-rehabilitation is still a new concept. Methods: This study evaluated 70 patients who had been enrolled for E-rehabilitation with a minimum of 4 weeks follow-up. Every patient was asked to use the rehabilitation App as per their requirement. Results were assessed with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), visual analogue scale (VAS) and active ranges of movement (forward flexion and external rotation). Results: The average age of enrolled patients at the time of surgery was 55.0 years (range, 40-65 years). In 2 and 4 weeks, the range of forward flexion and external rotation has improved significantly. DASH and VAS Score has also been decreased significantly at an average of 2 and 4 weeks with P<0.01. Conclusion: In this paper, we summarized the management of rotator cuff syndrome by using various mobile apps and also the various challenges faced in the elderly population with the newer concept of E-rehabilitation in this pandemic.