Acceptability and outcomes of an individualized exergaming telePT program for veterans with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study.

This was a pilot with only ten participants, and the authors say statistical conclusions should be taken with caution. There was no control group, so the study cannot compare the program with traditional therapy or no therapy. The program combined individualized home exergaming, remote monitoring and adjustment, and weekly video follow-up, so the contribution of any single component cannot be separated. Participants were selected partly because they had difficulty attending in person, such as living more than 40 miles away or being unable to transport themselves, so results may not apply to all people with MS who need PT. There was no follow-up period, so it is unknown whether or how long the improvements were maintained. Participants needed a Montreal Cognitive Assessment score above 23/30 to operate the tablet, so this pilot did not test people with more cognitive impairment. Adherence was not complete: participants averaged 2.5 exercise sessions per week against the recommended 3 or more, and were adherent to frequency for 7.0 of 12 weeks.

The supplied text does not state funding or author conflicts. It notes that GovSphere, Inc. configured the tablets and provided technical support, and Jintronix, Inc. produced the VITAL Rehab exercise software.

Do not conclude that exergaming alone caused the improvements. Participants also received individualized home exercise prescription, remote performance monitoring and adjustment, and weekly video follow-up with a physical therapist, and the pilot had no control group, so the contribution of any single component cannot be separated.