Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 13, 2025

Author Spotlight: Assessing Surgical Frailty with Point-of-Care Ultrasound of Quadriceps Muscles
Published on: July 26, 2024
Comparing Frailty Status Among Clusters Identified Based on EQ-5D-5L Dimensions in Older Patients with Chronic Low
Hee Jung Kim1, Hyeon Chang Kim2, Jisung Hwang1
1Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Anesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea.
This study identified four distinct subgroups of older adults with chronic low back pain (LBP) using health-related quality of life (HRQoL) data. Frailty levels varied significantly across these subgroups, highlighting the need for personalized LBP management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pain Management
- Health-Related Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Chronic low back pain (LBP) significantly impacts older adults' health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
- Understanding distinct patient profiles within this demographic is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify subgroups of older adults with chronic LBP based on EQ-5D-5L dimensions.
- To investigate differences in frailty levels among these identified subgroups.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 837 older adults (≥ 60 years) with chronic LBP.
- Cluster analysis of EQ-5D-5L dimensions to identify patient subgroups.
- Evaluation of frailty using the Frailty Phenotype Questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Four distinct clusters of older adults with chronic LBP were identified.
- Significant differences in pain intensity, HRQoL (EQ-5D-5L index, EQ-VAS), and frailty status were observed across clusters.
- Frailty was most prevalent in the cluster with severe mobility limitations and pain/discomfort (28.5%).
Conclusions:
- Chronic LBP in older adults is complex, with distinct patient profiles identified through cluster analysis.
- Significant variations in frailty exist across these subgroups.
- Personalized management strategies tailored to specific patient profiles are essential for improving treatment effectiveness and frailty status.
More Related Videos
05:53Measuring Frailty in HIV-infected Individuals. Identification of Frail Patients is the First Step to Amelioration and Reversal of Frailty
Published on: July 24, 2013
07:27Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016