Physiotherapy-induced functional recovery in a non-ambulatory elderly patient with bilateral knee osteoarthritis: a case report
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Background:Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders affecting older adults and is frequently associated with chronic pain, muscle weakness, impaired mobility, and progressive functional decline. In very elderly individuals, these impairments may lead to loss of independence and increased dependency for activities of daily living. Physiotherapy plays an important role in the conservative management of knee OA by improving muscle strength, joint stability, and functional mobility. This case report describes the functional recovery of an elderly patient with severe mobility limitation secondary to bilateral knee OA following a structured physiotherapy rehabilitation programme. Case summaryAn 86-year-old male with a diagnosis of bilateral chronic knee osteoarthritis presented with severe generalized knee pains and weakness, inability to ambulate, and dependence on caregivers for basic transfers and most activities of daily living. The patient also demonstrated reduced trunk balance and control, poor standing tolerance, and marked limitations in functional mobility.The patient underwent a structured home-based physiotherapy rehabilitation programme for a period of ten weeks. The intervention focused on progressive strengthening of the lower limbs and trunk muscles, balance training, postural control exercises, sitting and standing tolerance activities, and gait re-education using assistive devices. Functional task training was incorporated to facilitate independence in basic mobility. Following the intervention, the patient demonstrated marked functional improvement. He was able to maintain independent sitting posture for extended periods, showed improved trunk and limb muscle strength, achieved standing tolerance of approximately four minutes, and regained the ability to ambulate using a walking frame. These improvements translated into enhanced functional independence and mobility. Conclusion:This case highlights the potential benefits of structured physiotherapy rehabilitation in improving mobility and functional capacity in very elderly patients with severe bilateral knee osteoarthritis. Even in advanced age with significant functional limitations, targeted physiotherapy interventions can lead to meaningful recovery of mobility and independence in a cost-effective manner with limited use of pharmacological agents or medications. Further studies involving larger patient populations are recommended to support these findings.
Institution: Federal University Kashere
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220201399
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