IoT-enabled medical advances shaping the future of orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects smart devices to enable automation and data exchange. IoT is rapidly transforming the healthcare industry. Understanding of the framework and challenges of IoT is essential for effective implementation. This review explores the advances in IoT technology in orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted by the author using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2024 were preferred based on their focus on IoT applications in orthopaedic surgery, rehabilitation, and assistive technologies. Keywords including “Internet of Things,” “orthopaedic rehabilitation,” “wearable sensors,” and “smart health monitoring” were used. Studies were analysed to identify current trends, clinical relevance, and future opportunities in IoT-driven orthopaedic care. The reviewed studies demonstrate that IoT technologies, such as wearable motion sensors, smart implants, real-time rehabilitation platforms, and AI-powered analytics, have significantly improved orthopaedic surgical outcomes and patient recovery. These systems enable continuous monitoring, early complication detection, and adaptive rehabilitation. However, challenges persist in data security, device interoperability, user compliance, and standardisation across platforms. IoT holds great promise in enhancing orthopaedic surgery and rehabilitation by enabling real-time monitoring and personalised care. Moving forward, clinical validation, user-friendly designs, and strong data security will be key to its successful integration in routine practice.