Posted on
21 May 2026
Read time
1 minute
This study explored whether physiotherapy delivered remotely by video calls (“telerehabilitation”) could help people with early‑stage Parkinson’s disease stay active and improve movement. Researchers recruited people diagnosed within the last four years and compared usual care (general exercise advice) with a personalised programme of live video‑based physiotherapy sessions. Participants in the telerehabilitation group received tailored exercises focusing on strength, balance, posture and movement, delivered by experienced physiotherapists over around three months.
The study showed that running this type of trial is practical and acceptable. Most participants completed the sessions and follow‑up assessments, and many appreciated the convenience of avoiding travel. Early results suggested potential improvements in movement scores and physical activity compared with usual care, measured using clinical assessments and wearable activity trackers. While not designed to prove effectiveness, the findings support moving to a larger trial. Overall, this work, supported by ACHA Professor Adam Gordon, shows that remote, personalised physiotherapy could be a promising option for people living with early Parkinson’s disease.
