Cultural Influences on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Review of Barriers, Facilitators, and Health Outcomes

Nearly 400 million people worldwide suffer from knee osteoarthritis (OA), a widespread ailment that is more common in people over 40. The impact of culture on knee OA is examined in this review. Studies examining cultural issues linked to knee OA are categorized under barriers, facilitators, and outcomes after sifting through the literature from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL. Some of the cultural issues that impact the occurrence, course, and outcome of knee OA include diet, health beliefs, lifestyle, and medical attitudes. Squatting, kneeling, and other repetitive knee stress-causing occupational activities are prevalent in some cultures and raise a higher risk of developing knee OA. Adoption of evidence-based treatments may be delayed due to customs and traditions, such as the usage of herbal remedies and a stoic attitude toward suffering. Dietary patterns also play an important role, with the Mediterranean diet showing protective benefits against OA, while Western dietary patterns increase the risk. Knee OA can be effectively managed with physical activity, especially low-impact, culturally rooted activities such as yoga and Tai Chi. Strong social support networks and culturally aware medical practices are necessary to improve the health outcomes. The significance of creating prevention and intervention plans that are adapted to the cultural requirements of diverse communities is emphasized by this review. People with knee OA can greatly improve their quality of life by attending to these special demands.