This study evaluates the effect of Microcurrent Therapy in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. Patients will be randomized to four groups: Group 1 and 2 both will receive Microcurrent Therapy, but different currents will be used. Group 3 will receive treatment with the Microcurrent treatment apparatus, but without any current. Group 4 will be a control group without specific interventions.
The objective of this randomized, controlled pilot study is to evaluate the effect of Microcurrent therapy on pain and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. The secondary objective is to compare the effects of different currents. Patients will be randomized to four groups: Group 1 and 2 both will receive Microcurrent Therapy, but different currents will be used. Group 3 will receive treatment with the Microcurrent treatment apparatus, but without any current. Group 4 will be a control group without specific intervention. Group 1, 2 and 3 will receive 10 sessions of treatment in a treatment phase of four weeks. Assessments for group 1, 2, and 3 will be scheduled for screening (T0), at the first day of treatment (T1), at the end of treatment (T2) and three months after the end of treatment (T3). Group 4 will be assessed at a screening visit T0, at T1, at T2 (approximately 21 days after T1), and at T3 (three months after T2). Patients will be recruited based on the records of the clinic.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
56
The microcurrent therapy will be applied with electrodes that are fixed around the knee. The two electrodes of channel A will be placed at the inner and outer side of the knee that is most affected by pain. The two electrodes of channel B will be placed above and below the patella. An apparatus with CE certificate will be used.
Ludwig Maximilian University, University Hosipital, Department of Orthopedics, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Munich, Germany
Numerical Ratings scale (NRS) for pain (0-10)
numerical Rating scale
Time frame: Change of NRS: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score
Knee specific Instrument measuring pan, function and Quality of life.
Time frame: Change of scores: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
Short-Form 36
Generic HRQOL measure
Time frame: Change of scores: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
Satisfaction with Treatment (Questionnaire)
Self-administered questionnaire that was developed for this study
Time frame: Evaluation at the end of treatment (in average 21 days after Start of treatment)
Range of Motion knee joint
Clinical test with goniometer
Time frame: Change: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
Get-up-and-Go-Test (GUG)
clinical test that measures mobility
Time frame: Change: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
6-minute walking test
Clinical test that measures the Walking ability
Time frame: Change: Before treatment vs. end of treatment (in average 21 days later)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.