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The Mediating Role of Physical Function on the Self-Reported Pain and Cognitive Function Association
Ania Lipat1,2,3, Jessica Peterson4,5, Larissa Strath3,6
1Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
|February 11, 2025
Summary
Physical function mediates how knee pain affects cognitive function in older adults. Improving physical function may enhance cognition in those experiencing pain.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pain Management
- Cognitive Neuroscience
Background:
- Previous studies overlooked physical function's role in the pain-cognition link.
- Knee pain is prevalent in middle-to-older aged adults, potentially impacting cognitive abilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mediating role of physical function.
- To examine the relationship between pain intensity/interference and cognitive function.
- Focus on middle-to-older aged adults with knee pain.
Main Methods:
- 202 participants with knee pain assessed using validated scales.
- Evaluated pain intensity/interference (Graded Chronic Pain Scale).
- Assessed physical function (Short Performance Physical Battery) and cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment).
- Employed linear regression-based mediation analyses.
Main Results:
- Pain intensity significantly predicted cognitive function, even with physical function as a mediator.
- Pain interference significantly predicted cognitive function, but this association was attenuated when physical function was included.
- Physical function partially mediated the pain intensity-cognition link and fully mediated the pain interference-cognition link.
Conclusions:
- Physical function plays a crucial role in how pain impacts cognition.
- Impaired physical function exacerbates the negative effect of pain on cognitive function.
- Interventions targeting physical function may improve cognitive outcomes in individuals with knee pain.
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