Expert Conversations in PM&R Practice: Digital Rehabilitative Therapy Roundtable (On-Demand)-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar, hosted by Penn State’s PM&R department and the American Academy of PM&R, introduced digital rehabilitative therapy platforms to physiatrists. The moderator emphasized that the session was educational and non-endorsing, and asked attendees to consider how these tools might fit into clinical workflows and what outcome data would be useful.

Three companies presented:

<strong>Hinge Health</strong>: Dr. Jeffrey Cross described Hinge as a payer-focused digital MSK program used by employers and health plans. He highlighted its goals of reducing costly surgeries, opioid use, imaging, and overall MSK spend through conservative, upstream care. Patients are screened for red flags, then receive app-based exercise therapy, pain education, health coaching, AI support, and an optional pain relief device. He cited multiple studies showing improved outcomes and major reductions in surgeries and opioid prescriptions. Hinge is also expanding into hybrid care with virtual physician visits and in-person referrals.

<strong>Limber</strong>: Dr. Mark Gruner explained that Limber focuses on hybrid physical therapy and remote therapeutic monitoring. Its model grew from the need to connect clinic-based PT with home exercise adherence. He emphasized that most outcomes depend on what patients do at home, and that coaching and digital engagement improve adherence. Limber supports RTM billing, integrates with EMRs, and provides PT coaching, outcome collection, and value-based care tools.

<strong>VoriHealth</strong>: Dr. Jim Pichtel described a physician-led MSK practice using a hybrid virtual/in-person model. It targets common MSK conditions and also offers support for fall prevention, bone health, pelvic floor health, chronic pain, nutrition, and mental health. He stressed personalized care and strong patient engagement through motion-tracking technology.

The Q&A addressed compliance, technology barriers, access for older or rural patients, and device shipment options. Overall, the panel agreed digital rehab can improve adherence, access, and outcomes while reducing unnecessary care.

Keywords

digital rehabilitation

physical medicine and rehabilitation

musculoskeletal care

Hinge Health

Limber

VoriHealth

remote therapeutic monitoring

hybrid care

patient engagement

outcome data