Influence Of Morbid Obesity On Physical Capacity, Knee-related Symptoms And Overall Quality Of Life: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of morbid obesity on physical capacity, joint- related symptoms, and on the overall quality of life. Method: Cross-sectional study carried out at a university hospital, enrolling 39 individuals admitted to a bariatric surgery service. Physical capacity was assessed by Six-Minute Walk Test (SMWT) and the Borg rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Knee-related symptoms were evaluated by Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Lysholm Score. Quality of life was evaluated by Short Form 36 Health Questionnaire (SF-36). Results: On SMWT, the mean distance walked was 374.1 +/- 107.5 m. The mean Borg score was 12.9 +/- 2.4. KOOS questionnaire found the following scores: pain (64.3 +/- 24), other symptoms (67.2 +/- 25.5), function in daily living (60.4 +/- 26.8), function in sport and recreation (28.5 +/- 32.2), knee-related quality of life (35.9 +/- 33.5), mean Lysholm scale score (55.3 +/- 25.4). SF-36 provided the following scores: physical functioning (41 +/- 27.4), physical role functioning (34.6 +/- 39.2), bodily pain (45.7 +/- 23.6), general health perceptions (63.1 +/- 26.2), vitality (53.5 +/- 12.1), social role functioning (52.6 +/- 29.3), emotional role functioning (41 +/- 44.9), mental health (55 +/- 27.7). Conclusion: Obesity led to significant loss of physical capacity, gait impairment, knee-related symptoms, and a negative impact on the overall quality of life.