Abstract
Introduction:
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common degenerative disease in older people, causing pain, stiffness and dysfunction.
Objective:
To determine the influence of KOA on functional performance (FP), quality of life (QoL) and pain in older women.
Method:
This is a cross-sectional study, in which 50 older women diagnosed with KOA and 51 without KOA participated. Participants were assessed using FP tests: Sit-to-stand (STS); Gait speed test (GST); Timed Up and Go (TUG); 6-minute walk test (6 MWT) and the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Pain was assessed by the visual analog scale (VAS); quality of life by applying the SF-36; and self-perception of the disease by using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).
Results:
No intergroup statistical differences were found in the BBS (p: 0.42), STS (p: 0.59) and 6MWT (p: 0.97). However, the KOA group showed slower GS (p < 0.00) and longer time in TUG (p < 0.00). They also presented higher pain levels (p < 0.01), worse perceived health status regarding pain, stiffness and physical function (WOMAC) (p < 0.01), as well as worse QoL indices in functional capacity, physical limitations, pain and overall health status (p < 0.010).
Conclusion:
The results of the study demonstrate that older women with KOA showed a decline in FP, QoL and higher pain levels.
Keywords:
Osteoarthritis; Functioning; Aging