Using Telerehab: Remote Physiotherapy for Athletes
By Dr Ian Gatt | PhD SLA MSc OMT MCMI MAACP MCSP HCPC BSc (Hons)
Head of Performance Services | GB Boxing & UK Sport Institute
In an increasingly connected world, elite-level support is no longer limited to in-person appointments. Telerehabilitation, or telerehab, has revolutionised how athletes access physiotherapy, recovery plans, and performance advice, no matter where they are.
Whether you’re recovering from injury at home, training overseas, or simply managing your body during a busy season, telerehab offers flexible, expert support to keep you on track.
What is Telerehab?
Telerehab is a form of remote physiotherapy that uses video consultations, digital platforms, and real-time communication to assess, treat, and guide athletes — all without needing to be in the same room.
While it may not completely replace in person sessions, telerehab can offer:
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Injury assessments
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Exercise demonstrations and corrections
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Monitoring of rehabilitation progress
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Providing ongoing injury prevention strategies
It combines clinical expertise with digital accessibility — making elite physiotherapy available to athletes across all levels and locations.
Why Athletes Use Remote Physiotherapy
For many athletes, consistent access to physiotherapy can be a challenge. Travel, competition schedules, or lack of local specialists can limit support — especially for those outside of professional teams.
With telerehab, athletes benefit from:
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Immediate access to experts from anywhere in the world
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Continued treatment continuity, even while travelling
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Custom rehab programmes, delivered straight to your device
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Video feedback on exercise technique and progress
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Data-driven decisions through shared wearables or app tracking
Whether it’s prehab, post-injury rehab, or general maintenance, remote support keeps athletes moving forward — even between in-person sessions.
How It Works
A typical telerehab session includes:
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Video consultation: A live conversation where your physio observes movement, discusses symptoms, and assesses your needs.
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Digital programming: Tailored exercises and mobility drills sent via apps or video demos.
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Ongoing check-ins: Follow-up sessions to monitor progress, adjust load, and offer advice on recovery or training modifications.
Athletes are often asked to record movement tasks (e.g., squats, lunges, balance drills) for detailed analysis between sessions.
Is Telerehab Effective?
Research shows telerehab can be just as effective as face-to-face physiotherapy for a wide range of conditions — from joint injuries and muscle strains to post-operative recovery. It promotes athlete independence, improves adherence to rehab plans, and increases access to world-class support.
For minor to moderate injuries — or as part of an ongoing performance strategy — it’s a game-changer.
A Smart Addition to Your Performance Toolkit
Telerehab isn’t about replacing traditional physio. It’s about enhancing access, improving consistency, and making physiotherapy more adaptable to modern athletic life.
As the digital evolution of sports support continues, remote physiotherapy is set to play a bigger role in every athlete’s journey — from grassroots to elite.
