Abstract: ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship of lower extremity muscle strength and the pain or physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods25 patients with knee osteoarthritis diagnosed with have radiological and clinical data were assessed with Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and isokinetic muscle strength testing. ResultsThe lower extremity extensor muscle strength correlated with WOMAC pain scores, WOMAC activity of daily life scores, and WOMAC total scores （P<0.05）. ConclusionThe lower extremity extensor muscle strength correlated with the pain and physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Key words: knee, osteoarthritis, muscle strength, pain, physical function, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC)