The relationship between pain and physical function in adults with Knee Osteoarthritis

ABSTRACT: Knee Osteoarthritis is estimated to be the most common causes of disability in older adults. Knee and hip osteoarthritis pain in older adults is very common and osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and physical, mental and social disability. There is no study in Iran to explore the forms of relationships among pain, demographic characteristics and physical function. Therefore, this study was undertaken to describe the relationship among pain, demographic characteristics and physical function in patients with knee Osteoarthritis Considering Iranian patients’ culture in daily activities. Eighty-one knee Osteoarthritis patients referring to Rheumatology clinic depended on Tabriz University of medical science participated in this study with convenience sampling method. Data was collected through the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities questionnaire, that ordered in three subscales which included pain (5 items), stiffness (2 items) and physical function (17 items). Data analyzed using SPSS software. The results of linear regression analysis indicate the relationship among physical function, pain, stiffness, and duration of disease were significant. From these results it can be concluded pain and joint stiffness are important factors that affect the ability to perform activities of daily living in patients with knee Osteoarthritis. Therefore, we suggest that patients become familiar with nonpharmacologic pain relief methods and muscle strengthening exercises to overcome disability from disease.