Effectiveness of a Novel Aquatic Therapy Program on Functional Mobility in Older Adults with Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis impairs functional mobility in older adults. Innovative rehabilitation is essential. Aquatic therapy, leveraging buoyancy and resistance, offers a promising low-impact intervention for joint health. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an aquatic therapy program on functional mobility. The goal was to quantify improvements in gait, balance, and pain reduction among older adults. Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, from June 2023 to December 2024. A total of 142 osteoarthritis patients underwent a structured aquatic therapy program. Pre- and post-intervention assessments—including the Timed Up and Go test, balance evaluations, and pain scales—were performed using standardized, validated protocols to quantify functional improvements. Results: Post-intervention analysis demonstrated significant improvements. Mean Timed Up and Go time decreased from 15.2 ± 3.4 seconds to 11.4 ± 2.8 seconds (25% reduction, p < 0.001). Balance scores increased from 65.0 ± 8.0 to 84.5 ± 6.5 (30% improvement, p < 0.001). Patient-reported pain decreased from 6.5 ± 1.2 to 3.9 ± 1.1 (40% reduction, p < 0.001). Gait speed improved by 20%, with a mean increase from 0.9 ± 0.2 m/s to 1.08 ± 0.15 m/s (p < 0.01). Effect size calculations confirmed moderate to high clinical significance. Subgroup analyses indicated consistent benefits across gender and age, reinforcing the program's overall efficacy remarkably. Conclusion: Findings demonstrate that aquatic therapy significantly enhances functional mobility, balance, and pain relief in older osteoarthritis patients. Integration of this intervention is strongly recommended for standard rehabilitation protocols, proving clinically effective.