Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP) is at the forefront of enhancing the physical readiness of military members in the Hampton Roads area with the launch of a new virtual physical therapy program called Sword Thrive. This initiative, part of a pilot program by the Defense Health Agency (DHA), addresses common barriers to care, such as packed schedules, travel distances, and time away from work.

The Sword Thrive program utilizes a combination of motion-tracking technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and clinical oversight to deliver effective physical therapy care outside of the traditional clinic setting. Patients begin with an in-person assessment by a Doctor of Physical Therapy, who then creates a personalized home exercise plan. Patients receive a kit containing a tablet, resistance bands, and motion sensors to guide them through their exercises.

The tablet provides real-time feedback, correcting form and tracking progress, while a dedicated Doctor of Physical Therapy monitors the data and adjusts the treatment plan as needed.

Patients also have 24/7 access to their therapist through a secure messaging portal for support and reassessments.

Cmdr. Sowers, the Department Head of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at NMCP, highlighted the program's success. “The Defense Health Agency's implementation of innovative platforms like Sword is proving highly effective at addressing delays in care. Within our market, this virtual physical therapy initiative has improved patient access to care, from 3-4 weeks to 2-3 days. By integrating virtual access with traditional in-clinic treatment, we are creating a comprehensive care model that meets Sailors where they are. This flexible, hybrid approach not only yields excellent patient outcomes but also enhances our ability to provide responsive care that supports warfighter readiness”.

This initiative directly supports the strategic goals of DHA Director Vice Adm. Via by strengthening warfighter medical readiness through significantly improved access to physical therapy.

The program is currently being piloted with positive results at the Sewells Point, Naval Station Norfolk, Boone, and Naval Air Station Oceana clinics. The flexibility of the program allows service members to complete their therapy at their own pace, ensuring they can recover from injuries without compromising their duties.

Patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “I thought it was great," said one patient. "The system gives you all the info you need, and tracks the movement really well, which lets you know if you’re doing the exercise properly.” Another Sailor commented, “Sword has been truly game-changing. It gives me the flexibility to do my physical therapy when it works for my schedule, as often as I need, and I’m already seeing great results.”

By providing a flexible and effective alternative to in-person physical therapy, Sword Thrive helps to ensure that service members can maintain their health and readiness, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and ready military force.

Navy Medicine Training Command Portsmouth is Navy Medicine’s premiere medical force generation platform. The command provides superior medical to warfighters and their families, while maximizing readiness through the development of skilled, adaptable, and operational medical force prepared to meet the demands of the fight tonight.