Abstract:
Background: Knee pain is a prevalent musculoskeletal symptom across all age groups,
significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Various risk factors are
associated with knee pain.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the characteristics of knee pain and its association
with socio-demographic factors among patients attending the Orthopedic Clinic at
Teaching Hospital, Jaffna.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 426 patients
experiencing knee pain. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling
method from the orthopedic clinics. Data collection was done with an interviewer-
administered questionnaire. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ethical Review
Committee, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna. Data analysis was performed using
SPSS 20, with the severity of knee pain assessed using a numerical pain scale (Mild: 1-3,
Moderate: 4-6, Severe: 7-10). Chi-square tests and univariate analysis were employed to
determine associations and describe knee pain characteristics, respectively.
Results: The participants' ages ranged from 19 to 93 years, with a mean age of 58.47 years
(SD=14.832). The majority were females (59.4%) and Sri Lankan Tamils (96.7%). Most
participants earned between 5000 and 10000 Sri Lankan Rupees per month (48.8%), with
29.6% earning less than 5000 Sri Lankan Rupees per month. The highest level of education
for most participants was up to the Ordinary level (48.6%). The majority (91.8%) reported
moderate or severe pain, with around half of them experiencing knee pain bilaterally
(50.2%). Statistically significant relationships were observed between the severity of knee
pain and various socio-demographic factors, including age, gender, per capita monthly
income, educational level, type of occupation, and daily work activities.
Conclusion: The majority of participants reported moderate or severe knee pain, which
was significantly associated with various socio-demographic factors. Recommendations
include advising the target population to avoid prolonged standing or sitting with knee
flexion based on their occupation.
