Functional and clinical evaluation of anterior knee pain in middle-aged adults

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Anterior knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint among middle-aged adults, often involving the anterior and central regions of the knee. It can significantly impair functional ability and quality of life, particularly when bilateral involvement is present. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate pain intensity and functional status in middle-aged adults with anterior knee pain using the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale (AKPS) and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and to compare outcomes based on the side of knee involvement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This observational study included 51 middle-aged participants (mean age: 50.45 ± 1.88 years), comprising 17 males and 34 females, presenting with unilateral or bilateral anterior knee pain. Participants were categorized into three groups based on pain distribution: left knee, right knee, and bilateral knee involvement. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed using the AKPS and KOOS questionnaires. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to compare scores among groups, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed among the three groups for both AKPS and KOOS scores ( P < 0.05). Participants with bilateral anterior knee pain demonstrated significantly greater pain severity and functional limitations compared to those with unilateral involvement. CONCLUSION: Middle-aged adults with bilateral anterior knee pain exhibit greater pain intensity and reduced functional capacity than individuals with unilateral symptoms. Early identification and targeted physiotherapeutic interventions may help prevent progression of symptoms and improve knee function in this population.