A Review of Research on the Applications of Large Models in Each Functional Module of the Entire Rehabilitation Process

Population ageing and chronic disease are increasing demand for rehabilitation, while resources remain limited. This review does not report an implemented end-to-end system; instead, it proposes a modular workflow framework for applying large AI foundation models across rehabilitation. Organised into four stages—assessment, prescription, execution, and monitoring—we summarise recent evidence and highlight techniques most suitable at each stage. In assessment, multimodal models can enable more continuous and objective functional measurement from heterogeneous sensor and imaging data. In prescription, large language models can support evidence-informed, personalised plan formulation by synthesising guidelines and patient context. In execution, vision–language–sensor models can provide real-time feedback for telerehabilitation and adherence support. In monitoring, longitudinal and cross-setting data integration can facilitate risk prediction and early warning for safety and long-term management. We also discuss practical adaptation options (e.g., parameter-efficient fine-tuning) and propose a clinimetric-oriented evaluation framework to assess validity, reliability, and generalisability. By mapping AI capabilities to concrete workflow tasks, the framework provides a theoretical foundation and roadmap for reproducible research and future translation toward a universal rehabilitation model.