KNEE PAIN PREVALENCE AND ITS EFFECTS ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTION
Main Article Content
Keywords
Knee pain, prevalence, WOMAC, SF-12, quality of life, physical function, osteoarthritis, risk factors.
Abstract
Background: Knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint among adults and a major contributor to disability, diminished mobility, and reduced quality of life. Its prevalence increases with age and is influenced by demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors. Objective: To determine the prevalence of knee pain among adults attending outdoor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and to assess its effects on physical function and quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 adults aged ≥40 years attending the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient department from January 2018 to December 2018. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included knee pain characteristics, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the Short Form–12 (SF-12). Anthropometric and clinical measurements were recorded. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of knee pain was 44.0%. Knee pain was significantly more common among females (52.8%) and individuals aged ≥60 years (53.4%). More than half (59.8%) had bilateral knee pain, and the mean pain intensity was 6.1 ± 1.8. Aggravating factors included stair climbing (73.9%) and prolonged walking (69.6%). Participants with knee pain reported significantly worse WOMAC pain, stiffness, and physical function scores (all p < 0.001). SF-12 scores were also lower, indicating reduced physical and mental health. Older age (AOR = 2.58), female sex (AOR = 1.88), BMI ≥25 kg/m² (AOR = 2.29), and low physical activity (AOR = 1.55) were independently associated with knee pain, whereas diabetes and hypertension were not significant predictors. Conclusion: Knee pain is highly prevalent and substantially impairs functional ability and quality of life. Age, female sex, obesity, and low physical activity are key determinants. Targeted preventive strategies focusing on weight control, activity enhancement, and early intervention are essential to reduce knee pain burden and improve overall well-being.
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Nadia Rahman
Consultant, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh.
Md. Imamur Rashid
Consultant, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh.
Mohammad Golam Nobi
Medical Officer, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh.
Md. Abul Kalam Azad
Medical Officer, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh.
Nadim Kamal
Research Assistant, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Bangladesh.
