Knee arthritis is a common condition among older adults and remains one of the greatest causes of disability in our country. Consistent with many musculoskeletal conditions there remains a disconnect between imaging findings and a patient’s clinical presentation. Studies have shown many patients without knee pain can have signs of arthritis on their x rays. In addition, many older adults with knee pain can have negative x rays for arthritis. This lack of association is likely due to many patient factors including activity level, functional demands, strength, flexibility, and overall health. For example, a stronger patient is less likely to experience pain during a given activity compared to their weaker peers. Strength training as part of an individually tailored Physical Therapy program remains the gold standard for conservative treatment of this condition. A new research article highlights other modifiable factors which may influence the progression of knee arthritis.
A longitudinal, observational study was conducted to determine the factors associated with knee arthritis progression in older adults (Halilaj et al. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. 2018). Authors recruited subjects based on presence (N = 3285) of the condition. Patient history, demongraphic, functional outcomes and x findings were taken upon the first visit. Patient’s were then categorized by risk of progression of arthritis. High risk patients included histories of knee pain, aching or stiffness, previous total knee replacement, family history of arthritis, high body mass index, or previous knee injury. Patient disease progression was based on follow up x rays at 1 and 2 year follow up. In addition, patient’s completed functional outcomes at these time points.
Authors then calculated predictive variables which may have contributed to the radiographic findings. Consistent with previous research, x ray findings of arthritis including joint space narrowing did not predict patient symptoms. Authors prediction models found a slower gait speed, poor sleep, and higher meat intake were associated with knee arthritis disease progression. This supports previous research on the importance of a patient’s overall health in managing their knee arthritis. Smoking history, body mass intake, sleep, diet, and exercise remain some of the most powerful modifiable factors to reduce the progression and symptoms associated with knee arthritis.
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