Exploring the impact of waiting time on physical function and psychosocial measures in individuals with lower limb osteoarthritis awaiting orthopaedic consultation

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a muscular condition that often requires treatment by orthopaedic specialists leading to length waiting periods. The study aim was to examine associations between waiting time, physical function and psychosocial variables in individuals with lower limb OA awaiting orthopaedic consultation. Data were collected from 80 individuals. Physical function assessments included 6-minute walk test, timed up-and-go, chair stand test, and handgrip strength. The UCLA Loneliness Scale, Social Connectedness Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 questionnaires were used. Linear or ordinal regressions were used to determine associations. Greater wait time was associated with higher depression symptoms (β = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.06, <i>p</i> = 0.015), but not social connectedness, loneliness, or physical function. Higher depression scores were related to increased loneliness (<i>r</i> = 0.582, <i>p</i> = <0.001), and lower social connectedness (<i>r</i> = -0.470, <i>p</i> = <0.001). Increased wait times are associated with elevated depression scores in individuals with lower limb OA. Shortening wait time may reduce the likelihood of developing depression.