Comparison of cryotherapy, exercise and short waves in knee osteoarthritis treatment

Abstract

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of joint disease. Physical agents such as ice and heat can fight the pain process, when correctly indicated and used. The objective of this study was to compare physiotherapy protocols involving the use of exercise, cryotherapy and short waves in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. In a prospective randomized study, 25 individuals were treated (25 knees), with ages ranging from 58 to 78 years. GROUP A: exercise and short-waves (n=9). GROUP B: exercise and ice (n=6). GROUP C: exercise alone (control) (n=9). Analyzed variables were: subjective perception of pain (Borg), functional quality (Lequesne), range of motion, flexibility and muscular strength. Pain significantly improved only for group B, with positive functional quality and flexibility in all groups. The improvement in range of motion was similar for groups B and C. Flexion strength was maintained for groups A and B, and strength gain for individuals in group C. In the extensors muscles, strength gain was seen in groups B and C, while strength loss was reported for group A. The best protocol was that one involving cryotherapy and exercises for pain relief. All groups showed improved functional quality; no correlation was found for range of motion gain, flexibility and strength gain associated with thermotherapy.