Unlocking the Potential of Telehealth for MSK Disorders: Evidence-Based Insights for Practitioners

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has become an essential tool for managing musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. A recent systematic rapid review titled "Care at a distance: Understanding lived experiences of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth" provides valuable insights for practitioners aiming to enhance their telehealth services. This blog will explore key findings and practical implications to help practitioners improve their telehealth skills and encourage further research.

Understanding Patient Experiences

The review identified several factors that shape the patient experience with telehealth for MSK disorders, including:

• Convenience and reduced travel time
• Enhanced feelings of anonymity and reduced stigma
• Challenges in adapting to telehealth, particularly for urgent or complex cases
• Technological barriers and the need for digital literacy
• Importance of existing patient-practitioner relationships

Key Implications for Practitioners

Based on the review's findings, here are five practical implications for practitioners:

1. Relationships Matter: Telehealth is most effective when there is an existing patient-practitioner relationship. Efforts should be made to establish and maintain strong connections with patients.
2. Transforming the Ritual of Medicine: The absence of physical exams in telehealth can be challenging. Consider adopting new rituals or practices to foster trust and connection during virtual consultations.
3. Addressing Technological Barriers: Ensure patients have access to the necessary technology and provide support for digital literacy. This may include training sessions and technical assistance.
4. Recognizing the Work of Telehealth: Telehealth requires patients to take on new responsibilities, such as setting up technology and transforming their home environment. Acknowledge and support these efforts.
5. Adapting to a New Type of Patient: Telehealth is changing the role of the patient. Practitioners should be aware of these changes and support patients as they navigate this new identity.

Encouraging Further Research

The review highlights the need for more research to understand the nuanced differences in patient experiences with telehealth for various MSK disorders. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to this growing body of knowledge by conducting their own studies and sharing their findings.

To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Care at a distance: Understanding lived experiences of people with MSK disorders receiving non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth: A systematic rapid review.