Dr Deepika Saroj
Clock is ticking every second, every minute, every hour, each passing month and year and we are not getting any younger so as they say age is just a number but I would say age is definitely a number when we allude to our musculoskeletal health issues which occur on account of ageing. Problem may range from bones losing density, becoming weaker and brittle to progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, thinning of cartilage, decrease in the lubricating fluid in joints, stooping of posture, altered gait and reduced mobility etc. In medical parlance, they are called Osteoporosis, Sarcopenia, Osteoarthritis. Things are not gloomy as it appears and the same can be reversed with proper and specialized care administered by Physiotherapists . Physiotherapist as distinct class of health professionals are gaining currency and accolades for their stellar role in ameliorating the age related health issue.
Today on 8th September, As we celebrate “World Physiotherapy Day” with this year’s Annual theme as ‘ Healthy Ageing’ , we should be dwelling on the work of Physiotherapists towards helping aged people in tackling such peculiar health issues which they shall encounter as they advance in age in a holistic way. In such a scenario, the role of geriatric Physiotherapy is of immense importance in promoting mobility , function, independence, prevention of falls thereby improving the quality of life in old age.
A Geriatric Physiotherapist addresses age related changes in muscles, bones and joints ,helping seniors maintain and regain their ability to perform daily activities and stay independent.
The Importance of Physiotherapy in Aging:-
As we age, our bodies naturally undergo changes that can impact our mobility, strength, and overall physical health. For many seniors, these changes can lead to a decline in independence and quality of life. This is where the importance of physiotherapy comes into play. Whether you’re seeking preventative care or managing chronic conditions, a skilled physiotherapist can make a significant difference in the well-being of elderly individuals. Physiotherapists have a key role in enabling older people to use a number of the body’s systems fully to enhance mobility and independence. When neither improvement nor even maintenance of functional mobility is a reasonable goal, physiotherapists can contribute to helping older people to remain comfortable and pain-free.
Disability is generally regarded as being due to a pathological process, or injury, not prima facie ‘old age’ . However, biological ageing also also impairs optimal functioning of the body by reducing the efficiency of body’s systems there by retarding the individual’s ability to use these systems to their maximum capacity
Common Concerns Treated with Physiotherapy
Aging brings about various physical and functional concerns, which can significantly affect the wellbeing of older adults. Common Concerns in Older Age That Can Be Treated with Physiotherapy include :
Joint Pain and Arthritis: Joint stiffness and pain, particularly due to arthritis, are prevalent in the elderly. Physiotherapy can help alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance mobility.
Balance and Coordination Issues: Falls are a major concern for seniors due to decreased balance and coordination. Physiotherapists use exercises that strengthen muscles and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls.
Reduced Mobility and Flexibility: Aging often leads to decreased muscle strength and flexibility, making movement difficult. Through targeted exercises, physiotherapy can help restore mobility and flexibility.
Chronic Pain Management: Persistent pain from conditions like osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, and post-surgical recovery can be managed effectively with physiotherapy, allowing seniors to lead more comfortable lives.
Conditions Treated by Geriatric Physiotherapists:-
Geriatric physiotherapists specialize in addressing a wide range of conditions that commonly affect the elderly. These include:
Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures. Physiotherapy helps in strengthening muscles and improving bone density through weightbearing exercises.
Parkinson’s Disease: A degenerative disorder affecting movement and balance. Physiotherapy can improve gait, flexibility, and coordination, enhancing overall function.
Stroke Rehabilitation: Post-stroke recovery often involves regaining lost movement and function. Physiotherapy plays a key role in helping patients regain independence through targeted exercises.
Post-Surgical Recovery: After surgeries such as hip or knee replacements, physiotherapy is crucial for rehabilitation, restoring strength, and improving the range of motion.
Respiratory Conditions: Physiotherapy can assist with respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by improving lung function and endurance through breathing exercises.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Elderly Care
Geriatric physiotherapy involves a range of treatments tailored to the individual needs of elderly patients. These treatments may include:-
Exercise Therapy: Tailored exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. These exercises can be done at home or under the supervision of a physiotherapist.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage and mobilization are used to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and enhance joint function.
Electrotherapy: The use of electrical stimulation to reduce pain and promote muscle activation, aiding in recovery and rehabilitation.
Balance and Coordination Training: Specific exercises designed to enhance stability and prevent falls, crucial for maintaining independence in older adults.
Education and Advice: Physiotherapists provide guidance on posture, movement, and daily activities to help seniors manage their conditions effectively.
Benefits of Physiotherapy in Geriatrics
Physiotherapy offers numerous benefits for elderly individuals, including:
Pain Relief: Reducing chronic pain associated with age-related conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis.
Improved Mobility: Helping seniors maintain and regain their ability to move freely and independently.
Enhanced Balance and Coordination: Reducing the risk of falls, which are a leading cause of injury among the elderly.
Increased Strength and Flexibility: Keeping muscles strong and joints flexible, which is essential for performing everyday activities.
Faster Recovery from Surgery or Illness: supporting quicker and more effective rehabilitation post-surgery or after a health setback.
Better Quality of Life: Overall, physiotherapy helps seniors lead more active, comfortable, and independent lives, significantly enhancing
Conclusion: Movement as Medicine
Physiotherapy is essential for aging with dignity and function, so it is very important to start exercising as early in life as possible, to delay the process of sarcopenia.
Early, proactive and continuous intervention is key.
At-least 7500 steps a day is mandatory and advisable.
Let’s advocate for movement a medicine in the elderly.
(The author is Sr. Physiotherapist, GMC Jammu)
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