Perceptions and experiences of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and their parents regarding telerehabilitation: a qualitative study


ERDEN GÜNER A., ÖZTÜRK D., SARI M., Çelik H. İ., KORKMAZ ÜÇÜNCÜ N., Turanoğlu M., ...Daha Fazla

Physical Therapy Reviews, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1080/10833196.2025.2580728
  • Dergi Adı: Physical Therapy Reviews
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: duchenne muscular dystrophy, qualitative research, Telerehabilitation
  • Lokman Hekim Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Objective: This study explored the perceptions and experiences of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and their parents regarding telerehabilitation. Methods: This qualitative study involved 11 individuals with DMD and 14 parents. In-depth interviews were conducted, and the audio recordings were transcribed verbatim for analysis. Thematic analysis was used to to identify sub-themes, followed by examining patterns between themes, sub-themes, and codes. Results: Participants’ experiences with telerehabilitation are discussed under 5 themes and 11 sub-themes:(i) application, (ii) the group exercise process, (iii) benefits, (iv) the physiotherapist providing the training, and (v) recommendations. The telerehabilitation program effectively combines easy implementation, exercise facilitation, psychosocial improvement, motivation, and family involvement. Difficulties in the program included the need for parental assistance for individuals with severe DMD, internet interruptions, and occasional hesitation due to camera visibility. Conclusions: Telerehabilitation was perceived as an effective, user-friendly intervention that improves access to exercise, psychosocial well-being, motivation, and family support.