Kinesiophobia and Physical Function in Elderly With Musculoskeletal Pain

Condition(s) studied

Study summary

This study aims to investigate how kinesiophobia (fear of movement), pain intensity, and physical performance are related in older adults experiencing musculoskeletal pain. Musculoskeletal pain is highly common in the elderly due to age-related degenerative changes, such as osteoarthritis, chronic low back pain, osteoporosis, and muscle weakness. These conditions often lead to reduced mobility, impaired balance, and limitations in daily living activities. As a result, many older adults may avoid physical activity due to fear of pain or reinjury, which may further decrease their functional capacity.

The primary purpose of this study is to understand whether kinesiophobia contributes to lower physical performance in elderly individuals who have musculoskeletal pain. The study will also examine how pain intensity relates to balance, upper and lower limb strength, and overall functional ability.

Participants aged 65 years and older will complete a set of standard assessments in a single 30-minute session. Kinesiophobia will be measured using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, a 17-item questionnaire designed to assess fear of movement and avoidance behaviors. Balance will be evaluated with the Berg Balance Scale, which includes 14 tasks commonly performed in daily life. Lower limb strength will be assessed with the 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test, while upper limb strength will be measured with a handgrip dynamometer.

Understanding these relationships may help clinicians design better rehabilitation programs that reduce fear, improve physical performance, and support healthy aging. The findings of this study may also contribute to strategies for preventing disability and promoting independence in older adults with musculoskeletal pain.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Kinesiophobia Level (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia Score) — At a single assessment session (approximately 30 minutes after enrollment).
  Kinesiophobia will be assessed using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK), a 17-item self-report questionnaire. Each item is scored from 1 (strongly disagree) to 4 (strongly agree), yielding a total score range of 17 to 68. Higher scores indicate greater fear of movement and higher levels of avoidance behavior.

Trial sites (1)

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