Elevated Kinesiophobia Is Associated With Reduced Recovery From Lower Extremity Musculoskeletal Injuries in Military and Civilian Cohorts

Objective The purpose of this study was to examine associations between level of kinesiophobia and improvement in physical function during recovery from lower extremity injury. Methods A total 430 adults (mean [SD]: age = 27.3 [6.4] years; sex = 70.5% men; body mass index = 27.6 [5.2] kg/m2) were included in the analyses. Using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, physical function was evaluated in parallel with treatment from a physical therapist at the initial visit and every 3 weeks until final visit or up to 6 months. A Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-17) score of >41 indicated elevated TSK. Four TSK groups were identified: (1) TSK score improved from >41 at initial visit to <41 by final visit (TSK_I), (2) TSK score was <41 at initial and final visits (TSK−), (3) TSK score was >41 at initial and final visits (TSK+), and (4) TSK score worsened from <41 at initial visit to ≥41 by final visit (TSK_W). Linear mixed effects models were used to examine differences between groups in improved physical function over time, with adjustment for depression and self-efficacy. Results Groups with elevated kinesiophobia at the final visit had smaller positive improvements in physical function (mean change [95% CI]: TSK+ = 7.1 [4.8–9.4]; TSK_W: 6.0 [2.6–9.4]) compared with groups without elevated kinesiophobia at the final visit (TSK_I = 9.8 [6.4–13.3]; TSK− = 9.7 [8.1–11.3]) by 12 weeks. Conclusions Elevated kinesiophobia that persists or develops over the course of care is associated with less improvement in physical function within military and civilian cohorts. Impact The findings of this prospective longitudinal study support the need to assess for elevated kinesiophobia throughout the course of care because of its association with decreased improvement in physical function. Lay Summary To help improve your physical function, your physical therapist can monitor the interaction between fear of movement and your clinical outcomes over the course of treatment.