Exploring the Relationship of Pain, Balance, Gait Function, and Quality of Life in Older Adults with Hip and Knee Pain

Abstract

BackgroundMusculoskeletal pain is a common problem in older adults and can result in disability and suffering. Uncontrolled pain leads to diminished quality of life (QoL) and places a great financial burden on the healthcare system. AimsThe aim of this study was to explore the relationship of pain, balance, gait function, and QoL in older adults with hip and knee pain. DesignThis was a descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study. MethodsThe study included 111 older adults. Knee and hip pain was evaluated with a visual analog scale (VAS). Balance and gait functions were evaluated using the Timed Up-and-Go Test (TUG) and the Tinetti Balance and Gait Test (TBGT). Health-related QoL was evaluated with the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). ResultsThe TUG, pain, physical activity, and total NHP scores showed statistically significant differences between those with and without complaints of hip and knee pain (p < .05). Social isolation was more frequent in the older adults with knee pain (p < .05). Lower levels of performance were recorded in the TBGT for subjects with hip pain compared with those without hip pain (p < .05). ConclusionsPain in the lower extremities can play an important role in the deterioration of QoL and loss of balance and gait function. Knee pain may affect gait performance and QoL more than hip pain. Nurses and physical therapists in nursing homes should have good knowledge of pain and regularly monitor undiagnosed pain conditions in the lower extremities of older adults.