Background Current studies and research support the role of bone mineral density (BMD) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, few studies have focused on its impact on KOA parameters.

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate if decrease of BMD affect the intensity of pain, functional disability, and radiographic severity in KOA women.

Methods We conducted a cross sectional study including confirmed radiographic knee osteoarthritis according to Kellgren and Lawrence scale, with normal and reduced BMD according to the classification of Report of a WHO Study Group. The two groups were compared on pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Lequesne index, Womac function, and radiological grade after adjusting for significant covariates. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the independent effects of each specific component for decrease of BMD on knee osteoarthritis parameters.

Results One hundred forty women were included. The mean age was 55,28±8,08 [37–75] years, and the mean BMI was 30,18±2,43 [23–37] kg/m². The prevalence of decrease of bone mineral density was 55,7%. Women with and without osteoporosis had similar KOA parameters. Multiple regression analyses showed, after adjusting for all covariates, that decrease of BMD had a positive impact on pain VAS (p=0,002) and WOMAC (p=0,003), an indicator of restrictions on daily activity WOMAC (p=0,08), Lequesne index (p=0,001). Noted that lower parameters BMD was significantly associated with high level of CRP (p=0,04).

Conclusions In patients KOA with a concomitant decrease in BMD revealed a distinct pain in the knee by VAS and index WOMAC, a strong indicator of restrictions on daily activity WOMAC, more high Lekena index and a higher level of CRP.

1. In addition to anti-inflammatory therapy, appropriate treatment of osteoporosis needs to become an important management strategy for knee pain and functional impairment.

Disclosure of Interest None declared