Physiotherapy Intervention for Myogenic Low Back Pain in an Older Adult: A Case Report

Selvy Allhani Selvyalhani; Dwi Rosella Komalasari; Nur Widya Pradana

doi:10.24843/

Authors

Selvy Allhani Selvyalhani Physiotherapy Professional Program, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia Author
Dwi Rosella Komalasari Academic Supervisor, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Central Java, Indonesia Author
Nur Widya Pradana Physiotherapy Clinical Educator, RSUD Pandan Arang Boyolali, Boyolali, Central Java, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/

Keywords:

Low Back Pain, Aged, Physical Therapy Modalities, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, Exercise Therapy

Abstract

Background: Myogenic low back pain is common among older adults and is associated with reduced muscle strength, impaired flexibility, degenerative changes, and functional limitations. Combined physiotherapy interventions may improve pain and functional performance in geriatric patients.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the potential benefits of combined physiotherapy interventions in an older adult with myogenic low back pain.
Methods: A case report was conducted involving a 65-year-old woman diagnosed with myogenic low back pain at RSUD Pandan Arang Boyolali, Indonesia. The patient received three physiotherapy sessions over two weeks consisting of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS; 100 Hz, 15 minutes), infrared therapy (10–15 minutes), and exercise therapy including bridging, cat-cow stretch, knee-to-chest stretch, and modified plank exercises. Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), trunk range of motion, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
Results: After intervention, movement-related pain decreased from 8/10 to 5/10 on the VAS, while tenderness decreased from 5/10 to 2/10. Trunk flexion and lateral bending improved from 30° to 35°. Trunk muscle strength improved from 4−/5 to 4+/5. Functional Reach Test distance increased from 9 cm to 12 cm. ODI scores decreased from 44% (severe disability) to 22% (moderate disability).
Conclusion: Combined physiotherapy interventions consisting of TENS, infrared therapy, and exercise therapy demonstrated potential benefits in reducing pain and improving functional ability in an older adult with myogenic low back pain. However, further controlled studies are required.