PolyU launches exercise therapy for knee and back pain in elderlies

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has introduced two specialized exercise therapy programs targeting knee and back pain in elderly individuals, demonstrating measurable improvements in mobility and strength.

Developed by PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences in collaboration with The Salvation Army, the programs aim to alleviate chronic pain and enhance quality of life for older adults.

One of the initiatives that focuses on knee pain relief, invited 58 participants aged 60 and above to an eight-week regimen. The therapy consisted of weekly one-hour sessions focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises.

Post-treatment assessments revealed notable progress: participants improved their sit-to-stand test time by an average of 2.6 seconds, indicating stronger lower limbs and faster movement transitions.

Additionally, in a six-minute walking test, the exercise group increased their distance by 40.5 meters - an 8.4 percent improvement compared to pre-treatment performance. These results suggest the program’s effectiveness in boosting both muscle strength and endurance.

The initiative marks a significant step in non-pharmacological pain management for Hong Kong’s aging population. Researchers highlight that such structured exercise therapies could reduce reliance on medication while promoting long-term mobility.