Ultrasound Findings of the Knee and Their Relationship with Pain in Patients Aged 30 to 60 Years at HGR 1 in Orizaba, Veracruz
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Abstract
Background: Knee pathology is common and affects quality of life. The most frequent lesions are synovitis, bursitis, trochlear cartilage damage, and tendinopathies, with cartilage wear being relevant due to its relationship with mechanical overload. Early detection is key, and ultrasound, due to its accessibility, allows identification of the etiological cause of pain.
Objective: To determine knee ultrasound findings associated with pain in patients aged 30–60 years at HGR 1 Orizaba, Veracruz.
Material and Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study in beneficiaries aged 30–60 years, with and without knee pain. Philips ultrasound was applied with a high-frequency linear transducer (7.5–12 MHz), evaluating synovitis, bursitis, tendinitis, meniscal lesions, soft tissue inflammation, and cartilage changes. Pain intensity was measured with VAS (0–10). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected (age, sex, BMI, diabetes, physical activity). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used (Chi-square). Period: August–December 2025.
Results: The most frequent findings were cartilage changes (49%) and bursitis (44%), followed by tendinitis, meniscal lesions, and synovitis. In patients with pain, prevalence was higher: bursitis (84.4%), cartilage (80%), tendinitis (39%), meniscal lesions (37.9%), and synovitis (12.3%). Bilateral pain predominated (78.3%). Intensity showed a dose–response relationship: higher VAS was associated with more findings. Older age and obesity increased risk, while sex and diabetes were not significant. Mild physical activity predominated (62%) and was associated with more pain; vigorous activity showed a protective effect. Sports practice and active work were associated with lower prevalence of findings.
Conclusions: Knee pain in adults is associated with ultrasound findings, mainly cartilage changes and bursitis. A dose–response relationship between VAS and structural damage was confirmed, with elevated risks for tendinitis and meniscal lesions. Age and obesity were determining factors, while vigorous and moderate physical activity showed a protective effect. Ultrasound is reaffirmed as a useful diagnostic tool and exercise as a preventive strategy to reduce musculoskeletal load.
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