Muscle activation patterns differ with knee osteoarthritis status but not with physical activity level

Abstract

Purpose: The activity of muscles that cross the knee affects knee joint loading and therefore may impact the incidence and progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Greater activity of the quadriceps, hamstrings, or lateral muscle groups in adults with knee OA compared to asymptomatic adults has been associated with greater severity or faster progression of knee OA. However, whether the activity of these muscle groups can be used to differentiate between asymptomatic adults who will or will not go on to develop knee OA is not known.