Effect of catastrophizing phenomenon on pain characteristics in knee osteoarthritis

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Abstract

Aim. To assess the frequency and degree of pain catastrophizing among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA), investigate characteristics of pain syndrome in this patient group, and determine the influence of catastrophizing on pain perception.

Material and methods. A total of 98 patients with knee OA were included in the study (93.8 % women). The study methodology included assessment of the radiographic stage of OA, body mass index, age, duration of the disease, degree of pain catastrophizing using the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS). Patients answered questions of short form McGill Pain Questionnaire – 2 (SF-MPQ2), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Visual Analogue Scale for evaluating pain symptoms.

Results. Three groups were identified based on levels of pain catastrophizing: 1st group (33.7 %) had minimal deviations (< 14 points), 2nd group (42.9 %) showed moderate deviations (14–26 points); 3rd group (23.5 %) exhibited significant deviations (>26 points). Patients from the third group rated their pain higher (2.7 out of 5 points) and used more qualitative descriptors according to the SF-MPQ2. This group also reported more frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (73.9 %). Higher anxiety and depression scores were observed in patients with high catastrophizing rates. Pain in this group was characterized by neuropathic features. Regression analysis revealed that anxiety was the strongest predictor of catastrophizing. Other significant factors included body mass index, number of selected pain characteristics, and overall pain intensity measured by SF-MPQ2.

Conclusion. Perception of pain in OA depends not only on structural changes but also on psychosocial factors, particularly pain catastrophizing. Comprehensive assessment incorporating psychological and behavioral traits enables personalization of therapy and potentially improves the outcomes.

About the authors

O. G. Tsvetkova

Medical Association “New Hospital”

Author for correspondence.
Email: tsvetkova.og.work@gmail.com
ORCID iD: 0009-0006-6301-9886

 

 

Russian Federation, 29 Zavodskaya St., Yekaterinburg 620109

O. V. Teplyakova

Medical Association “New Hospital”; Ural State Medical University, Ministry of Health of Russia

Email: tsvetkova.og.work@gmail.com
ORCID iD: 0000-0003-2114-0419
Russian Federation, 29 Zavodskaya St., Yekaterinburg 620109; 3 Repina St., Yekaterinburg 620028

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