Impact of Osteoarthritis on Difficulty Walking: A Population-Based Study
Lauren K King1, Tetyana Kendzerska2, Esther J Waugh3
1University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Arthritis Care & Research
|May 18, 2017
Summary
Symptomatic hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) significantly increases walking difficulty in adults. Managing OA is crucial for maintaining physical activity and overall health.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rheumatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease affecting millions.
- Walking difficulty is a common limitation impacting daily life and physical activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) and the prevalence of walking difficulty.
- To identify key determinants of walking difficulty in a large population cohort.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort study (n=28,451) utilized questionnaires and administrative data to identify health conditions and functional limitations.
- Hip/knee OA was defined by self-reported symptoms (pain, swelling, stiffness) lasting ≥6 weeks.
- Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between OA and walking difficulty.
Main Results:
- 25% of eligible participants (n=18,490) reported difficulty walking.
- Hip and knee OA were the strongest independent predictors of walking difficulty.
- The likelihood of walking difficulty increased substantially with the number of affected joints and in the presence of comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Conclusions:
- Symptomatic hip and knee osteoarthritis is a primary driver of walking difficulty in the general population.
- Increased clinical focus on OA management is warranted to preserve mobility and support physical activity for chronic disease management.
