Correlation of demographic factors on pain, stiffness and functional impairment in patients with chronic osteoarthritis of knee

Introduction. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent arthritis that presents as joint pain or disability, mainly affecting knee joints. This study evaluates pain severity, stiffness, and functional impairment in chronic knee OA. In addition, it also explores the key factors that influence symptoms such as age, gender, body mass index, and joint stress. Moreover, the aim of this study is to explain the connection between these aspects and OA symptom intensity. Aim and objectives. To analyze the level of pain, stiffness and the physical function in patients with chronic osteoarthritis of knee and its correlation with the demographic factors. Method. This cross-sectional study evaluated the chronic knee osteoarthritis severity. WOMAC index was used to determine the level of pain, stiffness, and physical function among persons diagnosed with chronic osteoarthritis of knee. It also examined the relation with demographic factors such as age, BMI and occupation. Result. The study indicates a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis in older females, with a mean age of 57.13 years. BMI significantly correlates with osteoarthritis severity, showing strong positive associations with both overall symptoms (P < 0.001) and pain (P < 0.001). While age also positively impacts pain (P = 0.010) and physical function (P = 0.002), it does not significantly affect stiffness (P = 0.335). Educational and occupational status notably influence the WOMAC scores, affecting overall severity, pain, and physical function (P < 0.05), while gender and stiffness remain unaffected by these factors. Conclusion. The study has concluded that higher age and BMI are strongly associated with increased severity of pain and functional impairment in individuals with chronic knee osteoarthritis, while stiffness is unaffected by these factors.