Mobile health applications for improving physical function, physical activity, and quality of life in stroke survivors: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of mobile health applications (mHealth apps) containing a physical training component on physical function and physical activity in stroke rehabilitation. Materials and methods A systematic literature search was conducted in three databases for studies published from inception to 12 July 2022. Clinical trials including mHealth apps with a physical training component were included using outcomes of physical function and physical activity. Quality of life was extracted as a secondary outcome. Results Five RCTs, two non-RCTs, and four uncontrolled clinical trials were included with a total of 264 stroke survivors. Eleven apps were identified with a physical training component using features of gamification (six apps), exercise prescription (three apps), and physical activity (two apps). Six out of seven studies reported statistically significant improvements in physical function in favor of the experimental group, with the most robust findings for upper extremity function. For physical activity, statistically significant improvements were seen in the experimental groups. Only one study showed significant improvement in quality of life. Overall study quality was fair. Conclusions mHealth apps containing a physical training component are promising for physical function and physical activity in stroke rehabilitation. Further research is warranted to confirm these conclusions.