Telemedicine and functional assessments: from theory to practice
Vol. 48 No. s1 (2026): Telemedicine and functional assessments: from theory to practice
https://doi.org/10.4081/gimle.751

The effectiveness of telerehabilitation in people diagnosed with systemic sclerosis: a feasibility study

A. Boffelli,1 T. Nava,2 A. Tassoni3 | 1School of Physiotherapy, University of Brescia; 2School of Physiotherapy, University of Milan; 3University of Brescia, Italy

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Published: 28 January 2026
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Systemic sclerosis, telerehabilitation, interincisal distance, global disability

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Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease.1 Telerehabilitation may represent a valid non-pharmacological intervention.2-5 The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a telerehabilitation program in patients with SSc. Fifteen patients participated in a telerehabilitation program with a physiotherapist, including joint and soft tissue mobilization and educational sessions. Outcomes were assessed pre- (T0) and post-intervention (T1) using interincisal distance, the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Duruöz Hand Index, the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and pain and fatigue intensity (VAS). At T1, interincisal distance significantly improved (T0: 29.47±1.79 vs. T1: 33.2±1.60; p=0.003). Reductions were observed in HAQ (−21.1%), hand disability (−5%), fatigue (−5%) and pain (−4.8%), with a slight increase in mental fatigue (+4.2%). Telerehabilitation showed positive effects on functional outcomes in patients with SSc, supporting its role as an adjunct to conventional rehabilitation.

 

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3. Civi Karaaslan T, Tarakci E, Keles O, et al. Comparison of telerehabilitation methods for patients with systemic sclerosis in the COVID-19 Era: A randomized controlled study. J Hand Ther 2023;36:751-69.
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5. Yuen HK, Marlow NM, Reed SG, et al. Effect of orofacial exercises on oral aperture in adults with systemic sclerosis. Disabil Rehabil 2012;34:84-9.

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The effectiveness of telerehabilitation in people diagnosed with systemic sclerosis: a feasibility study: A. Boffelli,1 T. Nava,2 A. Tassoni3 | 1School of Physiotherapy, University of Brescia; 2School of Physiotherapy, University of Milan; 3University of Brescia, Italy. G Ital Med Lav Ergon [Internet]. 2026 Jan. 28 [cited 2026 Apr. 19];48(s1). Available from: https://medicine.pagepress.net/gimle/article/view/751
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