Clinical Report: Sensorimotor Impairments and Changes in Pain Sensitivity in Early Hip Osteoarthritis

Overview

This study investigates sensorimotor impairments and pain sensitivity in individuals with early hip osteoarthritis. Findings reveal significant deficits in proprioception, balance, and increased pain sensitivity compared to asymptomatic controls.

Background

Early hip osteoarthritis is a common condition that can lead to pain and functional limitations even before significant structural changes are evident. Understanding the interplay between proprioception, balance, and pain sensitivity is crucial for developing effective rehabilitation strategies. Identifying these impairments early may help in managing the condition and improving patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Higher hip repositioning error in early hip OA compared to controls (5.51° vs. 3.56°, p < 0.001).
• Increased postural sway in early hip OA (6.16 cm/s vs. 4.64 cm/s, p < 0.001).
• Lower local pressure pain thresholds in early hip OA (303.00 kPa vs. 415.00 kPa, p < 0.001).
• Proprioceptive error correlated with sway velocity (r = 0.56, p < 0.001) and inversely with local pain thresholds (r = -0.50, p = 0.001).
• Proprioceptive error and local pain sensitivity independently predicted balance performance.

Clinical Implications

The findings highlight the importance of assessing proprioception and balance in patients with early hip osteoarthritis. Clinicians should consider these factors when developing rehabilitation programs to address functional limitations.

Conclusion

The study underscores the interconnectedness of sensorimotor deficits and altered pain sensitivity in early hip osteoarthritis, emphasizing the need for integrated assessment approaches.

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4. Frontiers | Sensorimotor dysfunction and altered pain sensitivity in early hip osteoarthritis: associations with hip proprioception and balance impairment, 2026
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