Neuropathic pain adversely affects functional status, quality of life and depression in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Aim: The aim of our study was to determine the existence of neuropathic pain (NP) in knee OA and its association with risk factors, functional status, quality of life, and depression. Material and Methods: This was a descriptive study. A total of 100 patients (90 female, 10 male) with knee OA were enrolled. Data including age, gender, educational status, working status, body mass index, and symptom duration were obtained from patients. Patients were divided into three groups according to the PainDETECT scores: likely NP, possible NP, unlikely NP. Patients' pain severity was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS). For the presence of NP, PainDETECT scale was used. Functional status was evaluated by Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Quality of life was assessed using Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36) and depression level was evaluated using Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D). Kellgren-Lawrence grading system was used to determine the radiologic severity. Pain, functional status, quality of life and depression were compared among the groups. Results: Of the total, 18 patients (18%) were in the likely NP group; 23 patients (23%) were in the possible NP group and 59 (59%) patients were in the unlikely NP group. No significant differences were detected between the groups in sociodemographic data (p > 0.05). Significant differences were detected in symptom duration, VAS, WOMAC, SF-36 physical functioning subscale, physical role functioning subscale, social role functioning subscale, vitality subscale, bodily pain subscale, general health perceptions subscale and HAM-D scores among the groups (p < 0.05). PainDETECT scores were significantly correlated with VAS, WOMAC, SF-36 subscales, and HAM-D (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study revealed that NP is associated with severe pain, reduced functionality, impairment in quality of life, and higher depression scores in patients with knee OA.