What factors are associated with perceived disease onset in patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis

Abstract Introduction Newly symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) is often misinterpreted as new pathology or injury, which is associated with pain intensity and incapability. Methods Adult patients with hip and knee OA completed measures of catastrophic thinking, depression, capability, symptom duration, and perceived injury. Results Symptom duration was associated with OA grade and symptoms of depression. Perceived injury was common (31%) and associated with men and knee arthritis. Capability was associated with misinterpretation of symptoms and the work status ‘other,’ but not radiographic severity. Conclusions Misinterpretation of OA symptoms is common and has a greater influence on capability than radiographic grade of pathophysiology.