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Is Rehabilitation Technology Really Evidence-Based? A Question We Hear Every Day

  • Writer: PLAYWORK
    PLAYWORK
  • 6 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Written by PLAYWORK | Dec. 17, 2025


Almost every time we introduce new technology into a rehabilitation setting, the same question comes up: “Is this really evidence-based?”


It’s a fair question - and an important one. Clinicians are rightly cautious. Time is limited, patients are diverse, and tools that complicate treatment rather than support it rarely survive in real-world practice. The good news is that research is no longer asking whether technology can help in rehabilitation, but rather which kinds of technology actually work.


A 2025 scoping review in the Journal of Hand Therapy analyzed 41 studies on gaming and interactive technologies for upper-extremity rehabilitation. It found that game-based interventions not only enhance clinical outcomes - such as strength, dexterity, and pain reduction - but also boost patient motivation and engagement, making therapy more effective and enjoyable.


What the Evidence Is Telling Us (In Plain Language)


Instead of diving into statistics, in this article we focus on what matters most to clinicians: practical lessons you can apply when choosing technology for your clinic or patients.

Across the studies, technology-supported rehabilitation showed consistent benefits - but only when certain conditions were met. Success was not driven by flashy graphics or complex systems. It was driven by design choices that respect clinical reality. Here are important key practical insights from our Rehab-Tech Journey.


Practical Takeaways for Choosing the Right Rehabilitation Technology


1. Look for gamification of familiar exercises Technologies that work best don’t reinvent therapy - they enhance it. Systems that turn existing therapeutic movements into interactive tasks help patients stay engaged without forcing clinicians to redesign their protocols. If the movement already makes sense clinically, gamifying it can improve adherence without sacrificing intent.


2. Prioritize intuitive, simple interaction Evidence favors tools that are easy to understand and quick to use. Devices that simulate real-life actions (lifting, pushing, holding, balancing) or rely on familiar objects reduce learning curves - for both therapists and patients. If it takes longer to explain the technology than the exercise itself, adoption will suffer.


3. Choose consumer-style software over “medical-looking” platforms Software that feels like everyday apps - similar to what users know from Apple or Android app stores - tends to be better accepted. Clean design, clear feedback, and minimal menus matter. Clinicians don’t need another complex system; they need something that fits naturally into a treatment session.


4. Technology should support, not interrupt, therapy flow The most effective systems integrate smoothly into existing sessions. They don’t require long setup times, constant recalibration, or technical troubleshooting. If a tool disrupts clinical rhythm, it won’t last - no matter how innovative it is.


5. Measurement is valuable - but only if it’s effortless Objective data is a strength of technology, but only when it’s captured passively. Therapists benefit most when data collection happens in the background and supports clinical decisions, rather than demanding extra steps.


Video Demo - Flying Rocket Interactive Game - PLAYBALL therapy ball for hand strengthening after wrist surgery Play



The Bottom Line


The evidence is clear: rehabilitation technology works when it feels human, familiar, and clinically grounded. The best tools don’t compete with therapists - they amplify what therapists already do well.


Want to Dive Deeper?



Call to Action


We’re curious to learn from clinicians in the field. 👉 What technologies or tools are you currently using in rehabilitation? 👉 What worked - and what didn’t?

Write to us, share your experience, and help shape the next generation of evidence-based rehabilitation tools.



👉 Interested in bringing PLAYBALL into your practice? Schedule a free demo here and discover how PLAYBALL can support your practice.


Send us your feedback to [email protected] or visit our website at www.playwork.me 



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