Clinical Overview: The Oxford Knee Score
The Oxford Knee Score (OKS) is a 12-item patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) specifically designed and developed to assess the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Unlike general health surveys, the OKS focuses specifically on the pain and functional limitations associated with the knee joint.
Domain Focus
The questions focus on the patient's experience over the previous 4 weeks:
- Pain Levels: General pain, night pain, and sudden "shooting" pains.
- Functional Activities: Washing, using a car, shopping, and walking down stairs.
- Joint Stability: Whether the knee "gives way" or feels stiff in the morning.
Scoring System
OKS Total = Σ(12 Items, each 0-4)
Where:
Max Score=
48 (Best Function)Min Score=
0 (Worst Function)Note: The OKS was originally scored from 12-60, but the modern 0-48 scale is now the international standard.
- 0-19: Severe knee arthritis.
- 20-29: Moderate to severe.
- 30-39: Mild to moderate.
- 40-48: Satisfactory to Excellent joint function.