The Diagnostic Value of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound in Knee Osteoarthritis and Its Correlation with Pain Stratification

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of musculoskeletal ultrasound in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and to assess its correlation with pain stratification, with the goal of supporting early diagnosis and personalized pain management in KOA. A total of 128 patients with KOA were retrospectively selected. Based on their visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, the patients were categorized into mild, moderate, and severe KOA groups. Line charts and histograms were used to illustrate the distribution and variation of pain levels and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores. Scatter plots were generated to analyze the correlation between musculoskeletal ultrasound findings and pain scores. Preliminary analysis revealed a significant correlation between ultrasound findings and both VAS and WOMAC scores (P < 0.05). Line charts demonstrated an upward trend in VAS scores with increasing pain severity. Histograms indicated significant differences in the distribution of WOMAC scores across different pain stratification levels. Musculoskeletal ultrasound demonstrates strong diagnostic value in KOA and shows a significant correlation with pain stratification. This non-invasive imaging modality may serve as an effective clinical tool for individualized pain assessment and informed treatment planning.