ASSOCIAÇÃO DO ÍNDICE DE MASSA CORPORAL NO DESEMPENHO FUNCIONAL E QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE PESSOAS COM OSTEOARTRITE DE JOELHO

Abstract

Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative disease that causes loss of function, increased joint stiffness, pain and edema. Among the risk factors for KOA, we can mention sex, age, trauma, excessive use of the joint, genetics and obesity. Obesity is a factor of great concern due to the increasing prevalence observed in the global population. Obesity is associated with limitations in muscular performance and a greater likelihood of developing physical dysfunctions. Objective: To evaluate the influence of body mass index (BMI) and age on the functional performance and quality of life of people with KOA. Methodology: 30 people aged over 40 years old, with a clinical or radiographic diagnosis of KOA and symptoms for more than three months were included. This project was approved by the UFMS Research Ethics Committee under number 5,833,392. Results: Results: The results indicated that, among the possible predictive variables analyzed (BMI, duration of pain, age and sex), it was observed that BMI demonstrated an association with self-perception of physical function (WOMAC-function) (ß = 1.41; P = 0.024), WOMAC total score (ß = 1.866; P = 0.024), and fear of falling (ß = 1.139; P = 0.026). BMI also demonstrated an association with performance on the T-Ladder (ß = 2.6573; P = 0.005) and the T-C40m (ß = 1.912; P = 0.017). Age had an influence on T-C40m (ß = 0.715; P = 0.048). Conclusion: Based on the analysis of the data obtained, it is concluded that BMI was significantly associated with self-perception of physical function, functional performance and fear of falling in people with KOA. Age also showed an association with performance on the T-C40m. Therefore, the results of this study indicate that BMI has a greater association with functional performance, quality of life and fear of falling in people with KOA than other factors such as age, sex and duration of knee pain. This study therefore highlights the importance of including approaches aimed at reducing obesity in the rehabilitation of people with KOA.