Functional gains through video-directed exercises in post-stroke patients: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: With the advancement of technology and the increasing need for low-cost rehabilitation alternatives, video-demonstrated exercises have demonstrated potential as a viable solution for patients with limited access to in-person therapy. Post-stroke rehabilitation involves functional improvements in various areas, including structure and function, activity, and participation, as defined by the International Classification of Functioning (ICF), Disability, and Health. While in-person exercises have been widely studied, the use of audiovisual resources for promoting functional recovery is a more recent approach that requires further scientific investigation to confirm its effectiveness and benefits. The present study is a systematic review of the effects of video-demonstrated exercises in rehabilitating post-stroke individuals. Aim: This review aims to describe the functional improvements in structure and function, activity, and participation promoted by video-demonstrated exercises in post-stroke individuals. Methods: A search was conducted between October 2008 and December 2024 across three online databases: BVS, PubMed, and Web of Science. Only randomized clinical trials published in English, involving post-stroke patients and comparing video-based exercises with other physical therapy interventions, were included. Articles not available in full, duplicates, and those unrelated to the topic were excluded. Results: These studies revealed that video-based interventions provided similar functional improvements to traditional therapy, with no significant differences found between the groups. The limited number of studies and variations in intervention duration highlight the need for further research in this area. Conclusion: Guided rehabilitation programs produced comparable results to face-to-face therapy with functional improvements according ICF, Disability, and Health. Relevance for patients: Video-guided exercise rehabilitation programs have demonstrated comparable outcomes to face-to-face therapy after 3 months of therapy, with improvements in function and quality of life after stroke.

Keywords

Stroke / Audio-visual media / Instructional films and videos / Rehabilitation / Stroke

Funding

Financial support for this research was provided by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPQ), Brazil (Grant no.442260/2016-4).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

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