Multimodal Physiotherapy Improves Knee Osteoarthritis Outcomes: A Case Report

Aprilianti Anggaraini; Wijianto; Widyo Bintoro

doi:10.24843/mifi.000001766

Authors

Aprilianti Anggaraini Professional Program in Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Wijianto Professional Program in Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Widyo Bintoro Department of Physiotherapy, Indriati Solo Baru Hospital, Sukoharjo, Central Java, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000001766

Keywords:

Osteoarthritis, Knee, Exercise Therapy, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, Ultrasonic Therapy, Rehabilitation

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, pain, and functional limitations. Multimodal physiotherapy is widely applied; however, evidence on short-term integrated interventions in real-world settings remains limited.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a short-term multimodal physiotherapy intervention on pain, range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, and functional ability in a patient with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods: A single-case experimental study with an AB design was conducted in a 68-year-old female with right knee osteoarthritis. The intervention included Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), ultrasound therapy, and quadriceps–hamstring strengthening exercises administered over three sessions. Outcomes were measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), goniometric ROM, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Data were analyzed descriptively based on trend changes.

Results: Clinically meaningful improvements were observed. NPRS scores decreased for rest pain (5–1), movement pain (6–3), and pressure pain (6–2), exceeding the minimal clinically important difference. Active ROM improved from 115° to 130%, and passive ROM from 130° to 135°. Muscle strength increased from MMT grade 4 to 5. WOMAC scores decreased from 32 to 22, indicating improved functional ability.

Conclusion: A short-term multimodal physiotherapy intervention may yield clinically meaningful improvements in pain, mobility, muscle strength, and function in knee osteoarthritis. Findings are limited to descriptive evidence from a single case.