Association between BMI and Quadricep strength on function, health related quality of life and progression of condition in a patient with osteoarthritis of knee joint: A cross-sectional study

Background: Knee OA is a leading cause of pain, disability, and reduced QoL globally, especially in aging. BMI is a critical risk factor for OA. Quadriceps strength plays a crucial role in joint stability and function, with weaker quadriceps associated with poorer outcomes in OA patients. Methods: A total of 200 patients with knee OA were recruited. BMI recorded physical examinations, Quadriceps strength measured using handheld dynamometer, and OA severity using the KL grading system. Functional ability through the WOMAC, and HRQoL using SF-36 questionnaire. Results: Higher BMI was significantly correlated with worse knee function, poorer HRQoL, and advanced OA progression. Quadriceps strength showed significant positive correlations with knee function and slower OA progression, but no significant correlation with HRQoL. Conclusions: The findings suggest that high BMI negatively impacts function, quality of life, and disease progression in knee OA patients, while stronger quadriceps are associated with better function and slower OA progression. Keywords: Osteoarthritis, BMI, Quadricep Strength, WOMAC, HRQoL