Pain, physical function, and health in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between pain and physical functional limitation and health status in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Design: A correlational study. Methods: In a convenience sample of 73 patients with knee OA, pain and physical function were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index. Health status was evaluated usingmultiple instruments under the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework. Findings: In the study of patients with knee OA, pain and physical functional limitation exhibited mild to strong associations with health status, including body function and structure (r = .26–.71), activities and participation (r = .24–.88), and personal and environmental factors (r = .24–.62). Conclusion: In patients with knee OA, health status is mildly to strongly associated with pain and physical functional limitation. Clinical Relevance: Reducing pain and physical functional limitation in patients with knee OA might improve their health status.