Association of obesity with musculoskeletal health and functional mobility in females-a systematic review.

Abstract

Obesity is a prevalent global health challenge with a significant yet unclear impact on musculoskeletal health, particularly among females. This systematic review aimed to unravel the association between obesity and musculoskeletal health, as well as functional mobility in women. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for articles published between January 2001 and December 2023. Studies were selected based on their examination of the relationship between overweight or obesity and musculoskeletal health (including bones, joints, and soft tissues) and/or functional mobility in adult females (age ≥19) within the general population. Studies focusing on selective populations, or involving subjects with other health conditions or work-related musculoskeletal issues, were excluded. The data collected revealed a direct impact of obesity on musculoskeletal health, gait, and functional mobility, especially among women. Markedly, there was a strong association between obesity and musculoskeletal pain, particularly lower back pain. Obesity significantly alters gait biomechanics, leading to increased plantar pressure, altered kinematic patterns, and higher energy expenditure during walking. Higher BMI was found to significantly impact mobility-related limitations. Data also revealed that obesity, especially with BMI levels above 35 kg/m², adversely affects weight-bearing tasks such as walking, stair climbing, and chair rise ability. The findings of this systematic review emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address obesity-related mobility challenges, gait alterations and musculoskeletal pain to allow independence and enhanced functional outcomes in the daily activities of individuals with obesity. Exploring gender differences in obesity towards better understanding of the effect of obesity on the musculoskeletal health and functional mobility of women is critical for devising female-specific mitigation measures and optimizing management and treatment modalities, including pharmacotherapy.