Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) and Its Relationship with Physical Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common joint disease in older adults, leading to pain, reduced mobility, anddisability. Frailty, a condition of physical decline, increases vulnerability to health issues. Research suggests a strong connection between KOA and frailty, but this relationship is not fully understood.Objective :This review explores how KOA and frailty are linked, their shared risk factors, and the impact on older adults' health. Methods : A literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies were selected based on relevance to KOA, frailty, and community-dwelling older adults. Results : KOA contributes to frailty by causing chronic pain, muscle weakness, and mobility loss. Frailty, in turn, worsens KOA by reducing physical activity and increasing inflammation. People with both conditions have a higher risk of falls, disability, and poor quality of life. However, there is limited research on interventions addressing both conditions together. Conclusion KOA and frailty create a cycle of worsening health. Early screening and interventions, such as physiotherapy, strength training, and pain management, are essential to maintaining