International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 4 (July-August 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

Correlation Between Pain Intensity and Functional Limitation in Early Knee Osteoarthritis - A Pilot Study

Author(s) Ms. Priya S, Mr. P S B Roshan, Ms. Theertha M U
Country India
Abstract Background and purpose: Early knee Osteoarthritis (EKOA), despite minor changes on X-ray, often presents with considerable pain and limitations of function. Pain is considered the primary factor influencing activity restriction, yet the link between severity of pain and measurable functional performance in EKOA remains underexplored.
Method: This pilot study recruited 15 participants (aged 41–55 years) with radiographically confirmed EKOA (Kellgren–Lawrence grade 1 - 2). The severity of pain was measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and disability using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Objective functional ability was examined using the Timed Up and Go (TUG), 30 second Chair Stand Test (CSTS), and Stair Climb Test (SC). Pearson correlation was used to examine pain-function association.
Result: Pain intensity showed a strong positive correlation with TUG (r = 0.903, p = 0.000) and SC (r = 0.791, p =0 .000), and a strong negative correlation with CSTS repetitions (r = –0.925, p =0 .000), confirming that higher pain intensity is linked with greater functional limitation.
Conclusion: This pilot study shows pain intensity strongly predicts functional decline in EKOA. It highlights reduced strength and mobility, underscoring the need for early pain management with strengthening interventions to preserve function and delay progression.
Keywords Cross-Sectional Studies, Early OA, Knee Osteoarthritis, Mobility Limitations, Osteoarthritis, Pain Measurement
Published In Volume 8, Issue 4, July-August 2026
Published On 2026-07-12
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i04.83582

Share this