Correlation analysis between kinesiophobia and physical function in patients with hip osteoarthritis

Abstract

Introduction: To better understand the aspects that can influence the functional status and health of individuals with hip osteoarthritis (HIO), a better understanding of the factors that can increase fear of movement and reduce function in these patients is necessary. Objective: To correlate physical function and kinesiophobia in patients with HIO. Methods: This cross-sectional study included participants with a clinical diagnosis of HIO, of both sexes, between 30 and 70 years of age. Patients performed the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) to assess physical function, the Numerical Rating Scale to assess pain intensity, and the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) to assess kinesiophobia. Results: Ninety-eight patients were included. Comparing sexes for physical function and kinesiophobia, no statistically significant differences were observed in the medians of the 6MWT and TUG, but women presented lower results in physical function and higher scores on the TSK. There was a correlation between TUG and TSK (r = 0.29, p = 0.02), but there was no significant correlation between 6MWK and TSK. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between the level of kinesiophobia and the physical function of patients with hip osteoarthritis. Women present higher levels of pain and lower physical function compared to men. These results suggest that fear of movement can reduce functional mobility in these individuals and should be a variable evaluated by clinicians, as it may be a risk factor for functional decline.