Mahathir Mohamad's Recovery After Fall: A Struggle for Mobility

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who turned 100 on July 10, 2025, reported significant challenges in his recovery following a fall that occurred on January 6, 2026. While exercising at his home in The Mines, Mahathir lost control of his right leg, leading to a fall that resulted in a fractured hip joint and a head injury. He was subsequently admitted to the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur for treatment.

Channel News Asia - CNAThe Straits Times'As if my leg is not there,' says Dr M on fall recovery

In a podcast snippet shared on Instagram on April 14, 2026, Mahathir described the incident as "extremely painful," noting that it took several days for the pain to subside. He explained that due to his advanced age, doctors opted against surgery and instead recommended physiotherapy for his recovery. Three months post-incident, Mahathir stated, “I can stand now but I can’t control the leg. It is as if I don’t have legs,” highlighting the ongoing difficulties he faces with mobility.

The Straits Times

The injury involved a fracture of the hip joint, which connects the leg to the pelvis. Mahathir's son, Mukhriz, indicated that the decision against surgery was made due to the risks associated with Mahathir's age. Following his fall, he was discharged from the hospital on February 6, 2026, after showing satisfactory progress. However, he remained under close medical supervision and resumed work at his office on March 25, 2026.

'As if my leg is not there,' says Dr M on fall recovery

In his podcast, Mahathir provided a detailed account of his experience, emphasizing the severity of his condition and the challenges of rehabilitation. He stated, “The hip joint was fractured, so it was painful. But now, after three months, it has healed. I can stand, but I still cannot properly control the leg, as if it is not there.” This statement underscores the complexity of his recovery process.

'As if my leg is not there,' says Dr M on fall recovery

While Mahathir's health issues have drawn public sympathy, some critics have raised concerns about the adequacy of care provided to elderly leaders. Questions have been raised regarding the decision to forgo surgery, with some suggesting that more aggressive treatment options should be considered for individuals in high-profile positions.

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There is a lack of detailed information regarding the specific rehabilitation methods employed during Mahathir's recovery. Additionally, while Mahathir has reported improvements, the extent of his mobility and the long-term prognosis remain unclear, with no definitive timeline for his full recovery.

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• “I just lost control of my legs before I fell” — Mahathir Mohamad, Former Prime Minister of Malaysia

The Straits Times

• “It was very painful, though it slowly eased after a few days, but the pain is still there,” — Mahathir Mohamad, Former Prime Minister of Malaysia

'As if my leg is not there,' says Dr M on fall recovery

• “Yes, I was exercising, walking, when suddenly one leg — my right leg — lost its strength.” — Mahathir Mohamad, Former Prime Minister of Malaysia

'As if my leg is not there,' says Dr M on fall recovery

Mahathir's ongoing struggle with mobility serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by aging leaders and the complexities of healthcare decisions in such contexts.

Channel News Asia - CNA