The Contribution of Osteoarthritis to Functional Limitations and Disability

This article uses the Disablement Model conceptual framework to guide an analysis of the importance of osteoarthritis (OA) in the development of disability. The Disablement Model describes the development and progression of disablement from impairments to specific functional limitations and disability, and the hypothesized role of predisposing risk factors, extra-individual factors, and intra-individual factors. A wide range of population and clinical studies have characterized the unequivocal contribution of arthritis to the development of functional limitations and disability. Evidence overwhelmingly supports a significant, moderate independent contribution of arthritis to the onset and progression of functional limitations and disability. With respect to important risk factors for the development of functional limitations and disability among those with OA, the evidence provides strong support for the role of physical impairments along with other predisposing and intra-individual factors such as age, body mass index, obesity, lack of exercise, comorbid conditions, depression, and depressive symptoms. Extra-individual factors included need for aids and assistance, and lack of access to public or private transportation. Future disablement research must clarify the causal mechanisms behind a potential risk factor's impact on disability and delineate the interplay between and among the various hypothesized steps in the disablement process.