New Delhi, April 6 (IANS). Knee pain is affecting the everyday life of many people today. This pain gradually increases and reduces the functionality of bones and joints. People troubled by this problem often turn to medicines and expensive technical treatments like laser therapy or shock wave. But a recent study has revealed surprising results.
In the new study published in PLoS One, researchers analyzed data from 139 clinical trials, which included information from about 10,000 participants. Their aim was to compare different non-drug treatments and find out which methods were most effective. 12 types of therapies were included in this study, ranging from simple exercises to high-tech treatments such as laser and electrical therapy.
The results were shocking. The research found that the most effective methods were not the most expensive or high-tech. Rather, simple and readily available solutions proved to be the best. Knee braces should be at the top. These braces help to stabilize the knee and reduce pressure on a particular part of the joint. Its direct benefit is that pain is reduced and walking becomes easier. Additionally, these braces are readily available and not very expensive, making them a viable option for most patients.
After this, hydrotherapy i.e. exercise in water performed the best. Exercising in hot water reduces the load on the joints, thereby strengthening the knee muscles while remaining safe. The resistance of water strengthens muscles and reduces pain. Because of this, this method proved to be effective in both pain relief and movement improvement.
The third most effective solution was regular exercise. Daily light walking, stretching and muscle strengthening exercises increase knee function. This reduces joint stiffness, improves balance and makes everyday tasks easier. Over time this improves the quality of life of patients.
In contrast, high-tech treatments such as laser therapy and shock wave therapy provided only moderate benefits. Ultrasound therapy proved to be the least effective. This means that new techniques are not always the best and may have less effectiveness than simpler measures.
This study also made it clear that patients and doctors need to change their approach in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Instead of expensive or complex treatment, adopting simple, safe and accessible measures can be more effective. Knee braces, hydrotherapy and regular exercise are readily available and easy to adopt.
–IANS
PIM/AS