Prevalence of Genu Varum and Genu Valgum in Osteoarthritis, Association with BMI, Age, Gender and Grade 3, 4 of Osteoarthritis

A joint disease known as osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which cartilage breakdown, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees. Skeletal deformities, such as bandy leg and knock-knees, can worsen the symptoms and limitations of OA in the lower extremities. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between angular deformities (Genu Varum and Genu Valgum) and osteoarthritis (OA) in individuals between the ages of 35 and 80, with an emphasis on OA grade, age, and BMI. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 163 male and female patients with grade 3 and 4 OA from different hospitals in Lahore, ranging in age from 35 to 80 years, was conducted. Intercondylar and intermalleolar distances were measured with a scale, and the Q angle was determined with a goniometer using non-probability convenient sampling. The BMI was computed by dividing weight by the square of height in meters. Results: In this study out of 163 individuals, genu varum and valgum were diagnosed by Q angle, intercondylar distance, and intermalleolar distance. Data analysis using SPSS 27 revealed 52% of OA patients had genu valgum and 47% had genu varum. A strong association was found between these deformities and OA, particularly with increasing age and advanced OA grades. Conclusions: The study indicated that individuals aged 40 to 60 with grade 3 OA are at higher risk of developing genu valgum than genu varum. A significant association between these deformities and OA was found, with a p-value of less than 0.05. A strong correlation between age and angular deformities shown, while BMI and gender were less correlated