Effect of pulsed electromagnetic energy therapy on pain and function in subjects with knee osteoarthritis.

ABSTRACT

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) of knee is an important cause of pain and functional limitation in older people. Some studies show pulsed electromagnetic energy therapy (PEME) reduces pain and disability. The efficacy of PEME therapy in knee osteoarthritis is not known in Indian population. Aims & Objective: To compare the effect of PEME therapy versus conventional therapy on pain and function in participants with knee OA. Materials and Methods: A quasi experimental study of 20 participants fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria, by selective sampling was conducted at college of physiotherapy. Participants were randomly allocated into 2 groups. Group A was given PEME therapy with Magnetodyne with frequency 15Hz for 30 minutes, 6 days/week for 2 weeks. Group B was given conventional physiotherapy in the form of hot pack to the knee for 10-15 minutes. Both groups also received a set of 10 repetitions of quadriceps drill and stretching of tight muscles for 30sec-3 repetitions. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to assess knee pain and Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was used to measure knee pain, stiffness and physical function. Results: Difference in VAS and WOMAC scores were calculated using t-test. Mean difference in VAS score for Group A (4.08 ± 1.10) and Group B (1.40 ± 0.21) was significant with significant difference in favor of Group A (t= 7.57, p <0.001). Mean difference in WOMAC for Group A (27.50 ± 13.80) and Group B (8.50 ± 3.71), also showed a significant difference with more difference in Group A (t= 4.20, p<0.001). Conclusion: PEME therapy reduces pain and improves physical function in participants with knee OA.