Association between Pain, Functional Impairment and Radiographic Findings in Patients with Osteoarthritis of Knee

Abstract

Objective: To explore the relationship between pain, functional impairment (disability) and the radiographic findings in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Study Design: Cross sectional study Place and Duration of Study: Department of Rhematology, Pakistan Air Force Hospital Islamabad from 1st September 2020 to 28th February 2021 Methodology: One hundred and thirty eight patients of knee joint osteoarthritis were included. Weight bearing antero-posterior and lateral views X-ray for both knees were performed on each patient and Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) system was used to grade the severity of OA. We used Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) for assessment of pain, stiffness and functional impairment. Results: The mean age was 53.76±7.14 years and females were 92 (67 %) and males were 46 (33 %). Average duration of disease was 3.7 years and mean body mass index was 26.78±2.25 Kg/m2. There was no statistically significant association of pain, stiffness and functional impairment with Kellgren-Lawrence radiographic grades. Conclusion: Functional impairment is more associated with level of pain, stiffness in joint and body mass index of patient than the severity of radiographic changes on knee X-ray. Therefore, we would recommend considering functional status of patient alongside radiological findings while planning treatment for patient with knee osteoarthritis. Key words: Osteoarthritis, Pain, function, Radiography