HIP AND KNEE DYSFUNCTIONS DUE TO OSTEOARTHRITIS IN THE ELDERLY: PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC RESOURCES AS A REHABILITATION STRATEGY

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the factors contributing to hip and knee dysfunction in elderly individuals with osteoarthritis and discuss the most effective physical therapy approaches for rehabilitation and quality of life improvement. This integrative review conducted in the LILACS, MEDLINE, and BDENF databases, with publications published between 2015 and 2025. Of the 328 articles found, five met the inclusion criteria. The results indicate that physical therapy resources, such as kinesiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and strengthening exercises, offer significant benefits in reducing pain, increasing range of motion, and recovering function, including post-arthroplasty surgery. However, low adherence to treatments and limited studies specifically for this population highlight the need to expand dissemination and develop targeted protocols. The conclusion is that physical therapy is essential in the management of osteoarthritis in elderly individuals and should be combined with interdisciplinary strategies to promote autonomy, functionality, and quality of life.