Efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for knee osteoarthritis in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Resumen del estudio

1217 elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing non-pharmacological interventions vs conventional care or control interventions. Pooled outcomes of interest included pain intensity and, physical function, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores, stiffness, and quality of life. Exercise therapy significantly reduced pain and improved physical function after sensitivity analysis, while traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) non-pharmacological therapies also demonstrated significant benefits. In contrast, physical therapy modalities did not produce statistically significant improvements. Overall, the findings support exercise therapy as the most consistent and reliable first-line non-pharmacological intervention for elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis, with TCM therapies serving as an effective complementary option.