Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation in Adult Patients with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Narrative Review
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Keywords

Traumatic Brain Injury
Telerehabilitation
Telemedicine

How to Cite

Effectiveness of Telerehabilitation in Adult Patients with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Narrative Review. (2026). NEU, 50(2), 75-81. https://doi.org/10.82051/neu-2026-442

Abstract

Introduction. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability in adults. TBI-related disability often extends beyond obvious physical impairments to include cognitive deficits such as attention deficits, poor executive functions, and psychosocial problems. Innovative telemedicine-based technologies, particularly telerehabilitation, may represent a valuable opportunity in the management of these patients. This review aimed to investigate the role of innovative technologies in the motor and cognitive rehabilitation of patients with severe TBI.

Materials and Methods. A narrative review of the literature was conducted between March 2025 and April 2025, consulting the PubMed database.

Results. A total of 11 studies evaluating the feasibility, efficacy, or usability of telerehabilitation interventions by comparing digital and traditional methods were included in the study.

Discussion and Conclusions. Telerehabilitation appears feasible as an effective and well-received rehabilitation intervention for adult patients with severe head injury. In several studies, the use of digital technologies has promoted high levels of treatment participation, with significant levels of motivation and perceived satisfaction among both patients and caregivers. Telerehabilitation is confirmed as an effective option for supporting functional and cognitive recovery in adult patients with severe head injury, promoting active participation, continuity of care, and personalized intervention.

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Copyright (c) 2026 Maddalena Spinelli, Alessandro Lucarelli, Andrea Crognaletti, Alessia Galli, Andrea Coppari, Alessandra Montini