The effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on muscle strength and pain in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial.

研究概要

Sixty patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis were randomized to receive either home-based exercise alone (n=30) or home-based exercise combined with pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy (n=30) for 8 weeks. The primary outcome of interest was knee muscle strength. Secondary outcomes included pain, gait speed, performance in the 5-time sit-to-stand test (5STS), and self-reported physical function. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Overall, the results revealed significant improvements in muscle strength and pain reduction in the PEMF therapy group compared to the control group, with females and individuals over 70 showing greater strength gains and males exhibiting better pain relief. This study suggests that PEMF therapy could be an effective adjunct to exercise for managing symptoms in end-stage knee osteoarthritis.