Fig. 2

Transversal scan of the femoral condyle for assessing the global femoral cartilage: a grade 1, b grade 2A, c grade 2B, and d grade 3. Multivariate linear stepwise regression analysis was performed to detect the most independent ultrasonographic variable predictor for WOMAC grading severity (Table 5, Fig. 3). Cartilage damage graded by GFC was the only independent predictor for WOMAC total score and WOMAC subscales; stiffness and physical function are relative to other ultrasonographic variables. WOMAC pain score was predicted only with the lateral osteophyte