Physiotherapy Management of Advanced Bilateral Knee Osteoarthritis with Associated Lumbar Pain: A Case Report
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Abstract
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disorder characterized by cartilage degeneration, pain, stiffness, and reduced functional mobility. Advanced stages of OA often result in severe disability and may also contribute to secondary musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain due to altered biomechanics and gait abnormalities.
Case Presentation: A 56-year-old female presented with bilateral knee pain for 8 years associated with severe low back pain for 10 days. Clinical examination revealed pain severity of 8/10 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), reduced knee range of motion, quadriceps atrophy, hamstring tightness, crepitus, and positive patellofemoral grind test. Radiological investigations confirmed Grade IV bilateral knee osteoarthritis with osteophyte formation and lumbar involvement at L4–L5 and L5–S1 levels.
Intervention: A comprehensive physiotherapy rehabilitation program including pain management, quadriceps strengthening, stretching exercises, patellar mobilization, gait training, and lumbar stabilization exercises was implemented.
Conclusion: Physiotherapy rehabilitation plays a crucial role in reducing pain, improving mobility, enhancing muscle strength, and restoring functional independence in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis.
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