Tele-Physical Therapy: A Comprehensive Review in Analyzing Opportunities and Challenges in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a global health crisis with an increasing prevalence, affecting approximately 537 million individuals worldwide. Effective management strategies, including exercise interventions, are crucial to mitigate the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy. However, traditional supervised exercise programs often face barriers like transportation and time constraints, particularly for those with physical limitations.

Methods: This review systematically analyzes the existing literature on tele-exercise therapies as a viable solution for promoting physical activity among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Four electronic databases—MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro)—were searched for relevant studies published up to 2023, focusing on the implementation and efficacy of tele-exercise programs.

Results: The findings indicate that tele-exercise interventions significantly improve various health outcomes, including glycemic control, functional ability, and quality of life, comparable to traditional supervised exercise programs. The review highlights the effectiveness of both synchronous and asynchronous modalities in delivering exercise regimens, with evidence supporting improvements in muscle strength and cardiovascular health.

Conclusion: Tele-exercise therapies represent a promising approach to enhancing physical activity among individuals with type 2 diabetes, addressing barriers to participation in traditional programs. While results are encouraging, further research with larger sample sizes and diverse populations is necessary to validate these findings and explore participant preferences regarding tele-exercise modalities.