Publication:

Gender-based analysis of WOMAC scores in moderate and advanced knee osteoarthritis: evaluating pain, stiffness and functional impairment

Background Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) significantly impacts mobility and quality of life, with key issues being pain, stiffness, and functional restrictions. With possible differences in the course of the disease and the intensity of symptoms, gender differences in OA symptoms are still uncertain. Using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), this study examined gender-based variations in the burden of OA symptoms between KL grade 2 and KL grade 3 KOA.

Methods According to the EULAR classification, 108 patients with KOA were included in the study. Male and female patients with knee OA underwent WOMAC scores for pain, stiffness, function, and overall discomfort examined. Statistical significance was evaluated using 95% CI, mean differences, and independent t-tests. A p value of less than 0.05 has been considered significant.

Results Across all WOMAC domains, no statistically significant gender differences were discovered, and all comparisons had p values greater than 0.05. In KL grade II, males scored slightly higher on pain and stiffness, but in Kl grade III, these differences decreased. In both grades, the functional and total WOMAC scores were similar for both genders.

Conclusions The results show that among those with knee OA, there are no appreciable differences in symptom load by gender. This highlights the necessity of tailored treatment plans as opposed to gender-specific approaches. Other factors affecting OA outcomes, such as biomechanics, hormonal effects, and lifestyle factors, should be investigated further.