Pain characterization in osteosarcopenia: an exploratory study

To characterize pain in terms of frequency, intensity, and correlation with nutritional status, muscle mass, and physical performance in osteosarcopenic patients.

We included patients affected by osteosarcopenia (OSP), according to WHO criteria and EWGSOP2 guidelines. Assessments included Bone Mineral Density, Trabecular Bone Score and Appendicular Lean Mass, Handgrip Strength, Short Physical Performance Battery, and SARC-F. Pain was investigated by the Brief Pain Inventory, quality of life by the EuroQol-5D-3L, the nutritional status by the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, and the level of physical activity by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

We included 42 OSP patients with a mean age of 69.3 ± 11.3 years. Pain frequency was 78.6%. Pain severity was inversely correlated with lean mass, nutritional status, and physical performance. Pain interference correlated with impaired motor skills, balance and gait speed, and poor quality of life.

Pain is highly frequent and moderately correlated in individuals with OSP highlighting the need for integrated interventions focused on muscle health to improve quality of life and reduce fall and fracture risks.