Transformative Physiotherapy Approach in an 80-Year-Old Female: A Case Report of Managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea for Improved Quality of Life

TL;DR

An 80-year-old woman with severe sleep apnea and obesity improved her quality of life through a tailored physiotherapy program.

Contribution

This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of a comprehensive physiotherapy approach for managing OSA in elderly patients.

Findings

The patient showed improved respiratory function and reduced breathlessness after physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy interventions led to better sleep quality and increased oxygen saturation levels.

The case supports the use of tailored physiotherapy for managing OSA symptoms in elderly individuals.

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) presents a significant challenge to patients’ overall health and well-being, characterized by upper airway collapse during sleep leading to fragmented and non-restorative sleep patterns. This case report describes an 80-year-old female patient presenting with breathlessness, obesity (BMI: 43 kg/m2), sleep disturbances, fatigue, attention deficits, reduced chest compliance, and a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical findings revealed ongoing sleep disruptions, worsening breathlessness, progressive weakness, and decreased oxygen saturation levels. The therapeutic intervention involved a comprehensive physiotherapy program targeting respiratory muscle training, lung function improvement, peripheral muscle strengthening, and relaxation exercises. The discussion highlights studies supporting physiotherapeutic interventions such as thoracic extension exercises, neuromuscular stimulation, and oropharyngeal exercises for managing OSA symptoms. Overall, this case underscores the importance of tailored physiotherapy interventions in addressing the multifaceted challenges of OSA, aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

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