Is online physiotherapy right for you, or your parent?

Nine quick questions about the problem, mobility, the phone and internet at home, and who is around to help. You will see whether online sessions are likely to work, and what to set up first if needed.

Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT. Takes about three minutes.

  1. 1.Who is the physiotherapy for?

  2. 2.What is the main problem?

  3. 3.Is there a smartphone, tablet or laptop with a camera?

  4. 4.Internet at home

  5. 5.Can the person stand up?

  6. 6.Is someone at home who could help during sessions if needed?

  7. 7.How comfortable is the person with video calls?

  8. 8.Preferred language for sessions

  9. 9.Preference for the physiotherapist

0 of 9 answered

Answers stay in your browser and are not sent to us. This check gives directions, not a diagnosis or a medical score.

What makes online physiotherapy work well

Online physiotherapy works best when the main treatment is exercise and movement, the person can stand with or without support, and there is a device with a camera and a reasonable connection.

Many older patients manage well with a family member or helper for the first few sessions. Where online is not the right start, we will say so honestly.

Frequently asked questions

Who is online physiotherapy not suitable for?
It is usually not the right start for someone who cannot stand even with help, needs hands-on treatment, or has warning signs that need a doctor. It is also hard without a device with a camera and some internet connection. In these cases, in-person care first is often best.
Can an elderly parent who is not good with phones do online physiotherapy?
Usually, yes. A family member or helper sets up the first few calls, and after that most older patients only need to answer the video call. Your physiotherapist keeps the setup simple.
What equipment is needed?
A smartphone, tablet or laptop with a camera, an internet connection, and about two metres of space. A sturdy chair is often useful. No special equipment is needed to start.
Is online physiotherapy as good as in-person?
For many conditions treated mainly with exercise, such as back pain, knee arthritis and rehab after joint replacement, research shows online physiotherapy can achieve similar results. It is not suitable for everything, and your physiotherapist will tell you honestly if in-person care would be better.
How online physiotherapy works Arranging care for a parent More free tools
Dr. Rajendra

Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT. Licensed to practice in the US (NY state) and UK (HCPC).
20 years of clinical experience. About Dr. Rajendra