Dor crônica de joelhos em pacientes obesos: uma análise da qualidade de vida e da dor antes e após o programa de pré-habilitação e fotobiomodulação

Abstract

Chronic pain is one of the main factors impairing quality of life and functional capacity, particularly in individuals with grade 3 obesity, commonly known as morbid obesity. In this population, the association between excess weight and musculoskeletal disorders creates an environment with increased risk of comorbidities and complications, where obesity leads to joint overload and reduced mobility, while the resulting chronic pain further limits movement capacity, perpetuating sedentary behavior and worsening or triggering additional comorbidities. The biomechanical impact of obesity on the lower limb joints is well documented. The excess weight significantly increases pressure on joint structures, particularly the knees, accelerating degenerative processes and triggering local inflammatory responses. In parallel, psychosocial factors, including mood disorders, anxiety, and altered pain perception, contribute to the chronification of pain, creating a complex network of pathophysiological interactions and compromising the quality of life of these individuals. In this context, the present study aimed to assess the intensity of pain and quality of life in obese patients with chronic knee pain undergoing prehabilitation for bariatric surgery at the Physiotherapy Outpatient Clinic of HC-UFG. To achieve this, a randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted, in which one group received photobiomodulation (laser) applied bilaterally to the knees and to the lumbar spine, associated with a standard preoperative rehabilitation protocol, while the control group underwent only the rehabilitation program. Both groups showed improvements in pain and quality of life.