Preoperative physiotherapy in proximal femoral osteoid osteoma with lytic lesion.

Abstract

Osteoid osteoma of the proximal femur is a painful benign tumor that may cause severe functional limitations, antalgic gait, and risk of joint contracture. Although surgery is the definitive treatment, preoperative physiotherapy plays a crucial role in optimizing mobility and surgical preparedness. We present the case of an adolescent with a proximal femoral lytic lesion confirmed as osteoid osteoma, who underwent structured prehabilitation before surgery. Physiotherapy interventions included pain control, range-of-motion maintenance, muscle strengthening, gait training with assistive devices, and patient-family education. Over three weeks, the patient demonstrated marked improvements in pain, mobility, strength, and functional independence, enabling safer surgical planning. This case highlights the novel educational value of integrating physiotherapy into the preoperative management of bone tumors. Structured rehabilitation not only reduces disability and prevents complications but also enhances postoperative recovery and patient confidence.