Functional measures (fast self-paced walk test, stair climb, and timed up and go) and a self-report measure of function (Lower Extremity Activity Profile) were assessed in 1,805 total hip (761) and knee (1044) arthroplasty candidates (1,063 women, 742 men) preoperatively. Women represented 59% of the study subjects and showed greater disability than men (P <or= .001) in the physical performance and self-report measures. Although the hip arthroplasty group perceived greater functional disability and less satisfaction, the impact of osteoarthritis on the hip and knee was similar in terms of walking and stair performance. Overall, there was low-to-moderate correlation between the self-report and physical performance measures (r = .21- .50).