The elderly population has been growing rapidly, especially in developing countries like Brazil, presenting significant challenges for public health systems. The increase in the number of elderly individuals, along with decreasing fertility rates and rising comorbidities, has led to higher hospitalizations and mortality, particularly among those with frailty, sarcopenia, and musculoskeletal disorders. These conditions negatively impact functionality, mobility, and quality of life, making the elderly more vulnerable to severe complications. The implications of this aging trend for public health policies and hospital management are profound, requiring specialized care. Identifying clinical predictors related to frailty and musculoskeletal disorders is crucial to improving outcomes and personalizing care. This study aims to investigate the relationship between musculoskeletal complaints and physical performance in frail and pre-frail elderly individuals, contributing to the development of more effective rehabilitation strategies for this growing population.

To associate functional performance, gait mechanics, respiratory function, and the history of musculoskeletal dysfunctions among frail and pre-frail elderly individuals in hospital admission.

Twenty-seven elderly individuals aged 60 or older, classified as frail or pre-frail according to Fried’s phenotype, were evaluated. The methodology included gait tests, grip strength, the Medical Research Council scale, the Timed Up and Go test, the Short Physical Performance Battery, the 10-meter walk test, kinematic gait assessment, and inspiratory muscle function. Additionally, pain levels and data from functional capacity and performance questionnaires, such as WOMAC, the Health Assessment Questionnaire, and the Lequesne Questionnaire, were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson’s correlation test, with a significance level of p < 0.05 to determine correlations between pain levels, questionnaire scores, and functional capacity tests.

The data analysis revealed no significant correlations between the variables, refuting the study&apos;s initial hypothesis. The absence of association between functional capacity, length of hospitalization, and musculoskeletal complaints may be explained by the fact that frail elderly individuals have multiple impairments, such as sarcopenia, immune system alterations, and comorbidities, making the musculoskeletal impact a secondary factor in their health and recovery.

According to the findings of this study, functional performance, gait mechanics, and respiratory function are not associated with the history of musculoskeletal dysfunctions among frail and pre-frail elderly individuals in hospital admission. It is suggested that the functional impairment in frail individuals is influenced by multidimensional factors, with musculoskeletal complaints being a lesser factor compared to other health issues affecting these individuals.

The results of this study highlight the importance of a multidimensional approach in physical therapy for frail and pre-frail elderly individuals, considering factors such as sarcopenia and comorbidities. The analysis reinforces the relevance of personalizing care in hospital management and the need for comprehensive assessments in the training of physical therapists. Additionally, the findings contribute to the understanding of how rehabilitation programs can be more effective by addressing frailty in an interdisciplinary manner.