The predictors to self-reported and performance-based physical function in knee osteoarthritis patients: a...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Knee osteoarthritis (OA) significantly impairs physical function and can lead to disability.
• Understanding predictors of physical function is crucial for managing knee OA patients.
• This study investigates demographic, pathological, and muscle impairment factors influencing physical function in knee OA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictors of self-reported and performance-based physical function in knee OA patients.
• To analyze the impact of various factors on physical function outcomes.
• To inform targeted interventions for improving physical function in knee OA.

Main Methods:

• 135 knee OA patients completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for self-reported function.
• Performance-based function was assessed using the 6-meter gait speed (6MGS) and 5-time Sit-to-Stand (5STS) tests.
• Data on pain intensity, muscle strength, age, BMI, symptom duration, and radiographic severity were collected and analyzed using correlation and regression.

Main Results:

• Pain intensity and knee flexor muscle strength significantly predicted self-reported physical function, explaining 55.0% of variance in KOOS-PF scores.
• Knee extensor and flexor muscle strength were the primary predictors of performance-based physical function (6MGS and 5STS).
• Body mass index and symptom duration did not show significant correlations with physical function measures.

Conclusions:

• Pain intensity is the leading factor affecting self-reported physical function in knee OA.
• Knee muscle strength (extensor and flexor) is critical for performance-based physical function.
• Strengthening quadriceps and hamstring muscles is a priority for all stages of knee OA to improve physical function.