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

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.