SynthesisPhysiotherapy research international : the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy2026
Intramuscular Fat Infiltration and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Synthesis in Physiotherapy research international : the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Authors and funding
7 authors.
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Abstract
backgroundIntramuscular fat infiltration (IMFI) is considered to be closely associated with knee osteoarthritis (KOA); however, its overall association, muscle-specific involvement, and clinical relevance remain unclear.
objectiveTo quantify the association between IMFI and KOA, identify affected muscle groups, and evaluate prognostic value.
methodsWe searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase up to December 2025 for observational studies. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed bias (NOS/JBI). Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated using random-effects models, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses.
resultsSeventeen studies were included. IMFI was significantly higher in KOA patients than controls (SMD = 0.63, 95% CI 0.41-0.85, I
conclusionA moderate positive association exists between IMFI and KOA, with notable muscle-specific heterogeneity. Anterior thigh muscles show the strongest pooled association, whereas individual muscle findings require further confirmation. These findings suggest that IMFI may represent a promising potential marker warranting further prospective investigation for risk stratification, though causality and its role in modifying disease progression remain to be established.
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