Telehealth : Management of Functional Disabilities of Computer Users

Abstract

“Internet has changed the way we think and we live†.Introduction: Internet is one of the key element and tool for Human Resources and Development(HRD)in 21st century. Internet based services in mobiles and computers has extended the horizon of learning and training for every individual. Computer has become an integral part of our Activities of Daily Livings (ADLs) at one hand and prolonged computer usage has increases the risk of occupational hazards at other hand. Prolonged Static work at computer system is a causative factor to lead sedentary life style, poor postural ergonomic, structural derangements and dysfunction commonly at neck, shoulder and low back structures to develop functional limitation and progressively functional disabilities. The basic scope of physiotherapy by means of ergonomic advises and exercise therapy may have efficacy to promote, prevent and cure for such functional Disabilities (FDs). However, internet itself can be a mode of delivering physiotherapy services at workplace to reduce the time & cost together. Purpose of Study: To find the efficacy of Telehealth physiotherapy for FDs of the computer users. Materials: Internet supported computer, web-site (www.ptmovements.com), web pages, basic health assessment form, Self-Reported FD Questioners, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Back Pain Functional Scale (BPFS), Study Design: Experimental Clinical Trial Methodology: 1256 computer users (M=867) participated online and assess for inclusive and exclusive criterions. Internet based self-reported FDs questioners used to assess FDs in prior and post to two weeks of tailor made physiotherapy treatment program was introduced. Data Analysis:Prevalence of FDs among computer users and impact of Telehealth physiotherapy on FDs by comparing pre and post scores of self-reported questioners was analyzed with SPSS -18, LOS set at 0.05 or CI 95 % Result: mild to moderate prevalence of FDs was higher neck & shoulder as compared to low back structures. The Telehealth has shown efficiency to reduce the level of FDs at NDI, and BPFS. Discussion: The internet based physiotherapy isto reduce the FDs. The advantage of time & cost effective approach in Telehealth has facilitated keen interest among computer users. Conclusion: The Internet Based Physiotherapy Management is well efficient and prospective to develop scopes of “workplace wellness†to promote, prevents, and cures for occupational diseases & disorders. Telehealth physiotherapy has great prospectus in field of modern medicine. [Priyansu R Natl J Integr Res Med, 2019; 10(2):6-11]