Impact of Early Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for Pleural Empyema in a Geriatric Patient

Empyema is the accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity which can be linked to lung abscesses, trauma, septicemia, or spinal osteomyelitis. It is usually caused by a lung infection that extends to the pleural space and causes pus to accumulate. Here, we present the case of a 70-year-old male who complained of dry cough for 15 days, breathlessness on walking for 20 days, right-sided chest and upper back pain, and high-grade fever for 15 days. On investigation, pleural empyema was diagnosed. He underwent a thoracoscopy to drain the fluid and an intercostal drainage tube was inserted. Along with medical management, physiotherapy was also required to help the patient to perform his daily activities with ease. A physiotherapy protocol was developed for the patient to improve his condition.