Knee pain is a prevalent and growing public health concern, particularly among adults, making it one of the most frequent reasons for primary care consultations. Research indicates that nearly 25% of Americans over the age of 55 experience chronic knee pain, with osteoarthritis (OA) being the leading cause (Hunter et al., 2022). This condition not only contributes to reduced mobility and disability but also imposes significant financial burdens, with knee OA-related medical costs surpassing $80 billion annually (Shema-Shiratzky et al., 2023).

As the aging population continues to rise, primary care providers play a critical role in early diagnosis, risk assessment, and effective management of knee pain. While osteoarthritis accounts for approximately 13.8% of cases, other contributing factors include previous knee injuries, inflammatory conditions, and psychosocial influences (Bedenbaugh et al., 2021; Sugai et al., 2018). Risk factors such as age, obesity, and prior trauma can negatively impact treatment outcomes, making a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach essential for optimal patient care (Collier et al., 2023).

Knee Pain Triage Questionnaire