Software Design for Physical Rehabilitation in Patients with Musculoskeletal Injuries

Abstract

Limited accessibility to rehabilitation services, especially in rural and marginalized areas, negatively impacts the recovery of patients with musculoskeletal injuries. This study presents the development of an application that seeks to overcome these barriers by offering personalized and digitally accessible programs. Using the design thinking (DT) methodology, five stages were implemented: 1) empathize, 2) define, 3) ideate, 4) prototype, and 5) test. During the empathize phase, the need for personalization, accessibility, and detailed visual tools was identified through patient-directed questionnaires. In the define phase, key features such as adaptable exercise plans, interactive tutorials, and progress monitoring were prioritized. In the ideate phase, proposals were devised focused on solving the identified problems. The final prototype of the application includes an intuitive interface with an interactive planner, progress graphs, and a reminder system to improve treatment integration. The results of the tests, conducted with 23 participants with musculoskeletal injuries undergoing various rehabilitation processes, indicate that functionality (37%), usability (37%), and effectiveness (26%) were the most highly valued aspects by users. In conclusion, this application represents an effective technological solution that can improve treatment adherence and transform physical rehabilitation, providing a replicable model for vulnerable populations.