Associations between Statin use and changes in pain, function and structural progression: a longitudinal study of persons with knee osteoarthritis

Abstract

Statin use was not associated with improvements in knee pain, function or structural progression over the 4-year study period.

Is Statin Use Associated With New Joint‐Related Symptoms, Physical Function, and Quality of Life? Results From Two Population‐Based Cohorts of Women

“…These results are in line with another study that examined associations between statin use and joint-related symptoms. Riddle et al found no association between statin use and knee pain in a sample of 2,207 men and women with or at high risk of OA (12). However, 2 studies that examined associations between statin use and symptomatic radiographic OA did find significant associations (9,10).…”

“…If statins do indeed prevent OA, it would be expected that statins also prevent OA-related symptoms. In a study among men and women with OA or with a high risk of OA, no association was found between statin use and knee pain (12). However, as most participants in that study had knee pain at baseline, the study does not provide insight in potential preventive effect of statin use on symptoms.…”

“…The following variables were included as potential confounders: age, area of residence, level of education, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and hypertension (8,12). Level of education was assessed at the 1996 survey as the highest qualification completed as follows: no formal qualification, school certificate, high school certificate, trade/ apprenticeship/diploma, university, or higher degree.…”

“…Universities Osteoarthritis Index (12). The association between statin use and physical functioning may be explained by muscle pain, which is a known adverse effect of statins (22,23).…”

Cardiovascular disease and osteoarthritis: common pathways and patient outcomes

“…Although a large longitudinal study in the OA found no such association [48], it is possible that statins affect lipid dysregulation particularly in generalised (i.e. systemic) forms of OA where several joints are involved [49].…”