The relationship between comorbidities, physical inactivity, kinesiophobia and physical performance in hypertensive individuals: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a prevalent chronic condition accompanied by comorbidities that negatively affect health outcomes. Comorbid conditions in hypertensive individuals may contribute to increased physical inactivity, heightened levels of kinesiophobia, and diminished physical performance. This study aimed to investigate the relationships among Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). scores, kinesiophobia, physical activity levels, and physical performance in hypertensive individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 186 hypertensive participants aged ≥ 40 years. CCI was utilized to assess comorbidities, and physical activity levels were evaluated with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Kinesiophobia was measured using the Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale (TKS)., and physical performance was evaluated through the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test (STS-30). and the Five Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FT-STS). Spearman correlation analysis was performed to assess relationships among variables. Results: The majority of participants (88.7%) exhibited kinesiophobia, and 93.5% were physically inactive. A significant but positive weak correlation were found between CCI and TKS (r = 0.239, p = 0.002). A significant but weak negative correlation were observed between CCI and STS-30 (r=-0.264, p = 0.001), while a weak positive correlation was observed CCI and FT-STS (r = 0.227, p = 0.005) among inactive individuals. A weak negative correlation was also found between IPAQ-SF and CCI in inactive participants (r=-0.184, p = 0.020). No significant correlations were found in active individuals. The effect sizes for these correlations ranged from moderate to small, suggesting a meaningful, but limited, impact of comorbidities on physical inactivity and kinesiophobia. Conclusions: Comorbidities (CCI) were significantly associated with kinesiophobia and physical performance in inactive hypertensive individuals. These findings highlight the need for patient-centered targeted interventions addressing comorbidities to enhance physical activity, management kinesiophobia and improve physical performance in this population.