Current trends in physiotherapy assessment by mobile application: A scoping review

Background: Digitalization in the health sector has markedly influenced service offerings. This study considers the use of mobile applications as innovative tools for assessment and management. Previous studies indicate that mobile apps can assess pain, gait, posture, balance, range of motion, and neurological function. The main purpose of this scoping review is to examine the integration of mobile apps into physiotherapy assessment, mainly by evaluating their validity and clinical use. Methods: This review conducted a systematic search and found 67 potentially relevant studies. Preliminary screening based on titles and abstracts excluded 33 articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria. The author conducted a thorough full-text evaluation of all remaining 34 articles, finally reviewing 14 high-quality studies from 2014-2024 that satisfied all inclusion criteria. Results: Mobile application-based assessment in physiotherapy facilitates accessibility and individualized patient care, enabling precise outcomes. Previous studies involving athletes, elderly participants, and pediatric populations have validated tools such as accelerometers (used in motion analysis), inclinometry apps, and GPS-integrated walking tests. These tools have been compared with established instruments, such as standard Vicon systems, universal goniometers, and clinical traditional assessment protocols. Conclusion: This research defines the scope of mobile app use and its capacity to transform clinical physiotherapy practices by enhancing personalized, real-time, and accurate evaluation techniques in assessment procedures.