Associação entre a força isométrica de quadríceps, dor e capacidade funcional na osteoartrite de joelho

Abstract

Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a health condition related to pain and functional disability. Previous studies have shown that symptomatic KOA individuals have a reduction in muscle extensor strength compared to asymptomatic individuals. However, the association between isometric quadriceps muscle strength and pain and functional capacity is quantitatively unknown. Objective: To analyze the association between isometric quadriceps muscle strength, pain and functional capacity in KOA patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional study evaluated 91 individuals with symptomatic KOA. The instruments applied were: assessment form, Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), 30s Chair Stand Test, Lequesne Index and Hand-Held Dynamometer. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive analysis and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 91 participants were included in the study, 82.7% female (n = 75). A weak to moderate significant correlation was found between quadriceps strength and physical function tests, and no correlation was observed between pain level and quadriceps strength. Conclusion: Quadriceps isometric strength was weak to moderate in relation to functional capacity. However, it was not significantly related to pain in individuals with KOA. Further studies are needed to investigate other factors associated with functional capacity and pain in KOA.