Muscular performance, body composition, pain and functionality in elderly with knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Introduction: In the last decades, population ageing has affected both developed and developing countries and is considered a relevant issue. This process leads to progressive decline in body functions and changes in body composition. Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease, especially in the knees. Objective: The present study aimed to correlate muscular performance, body composition, pain and functionality in elderly with knee osteoarthritis. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study that took place at Laboratório de Análise do Movimento Humano of Centro Universitário Augusto Motta (UNISUAM) with 21 elderly patients, 18 of whom were sixty-year-old (or older) women, who had been previously trialed at the physiotherapy department at Centro Municipal de Reabilitação, in Engenho de Dentro, Rio de Janeiro. Evaluations included bioelectrical impedance, surface electromyography, and the WOMAC questionnaire. Results: The sample showed  67.36 ± 4.21 years, body fat percentage 40.57 ± 6.15%. WOMAC overall score was 43.27 ± 16.32%. Maximum strength was 19.95 ± 6.98 kgF. Pain during movement correlated with WOMAC domains: pain (r=0.47; p=0.02), physical activity (r=0.47; p=0.02), and overall (r=0.51; p=0.01). Night pain correlated with pain (r=0.42; p=0.05), stiffness (r=0.55; p=0.01), and fatigue. Conclusion: In conclusion, pain intensity is correlated with functional disability and higher prevalence of fatigue signs in elderly with knee OA.