Effects of Ultrasound versus Low Level Laser Therapy in Levofloxacin-Induced Rat Model of Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Objectives. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common diseases affecting both aged and young people. Physiotherapy provides effective non-pharmacologic intervention for knee OA. Evidence for inflammation in OA is good predictive factor of OA progressions. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of conventional Ultra Sound (US) and low level laser therapy (LLLT) on levels of inflammatory cytokines and histopathological changes in chemically-induced knee OA in rats. Methods. Eighteen male rats divided into three groups; (Lev) group treated with levofloxacin (Lev), (US) group treated with Lev plus US and (LLLT) group treated with Lev plus low level laser therapy. All animals received total of 200 mg injection of Lev. Total of ten sessions of US and laser applied. Results. We found significant decrease of serum IL-1beta, Mankin's score and increase in knee extension angle in both US and LLLT groups compared to Lev group. US significantly lower IL-6, INF-gamma, CRP and significantly elevate IL-10 in US group compared to Lev and LLLT groups. Conclusion. Based on our finding, US may provide better therapeutic effect compared to LLLT in knee osteoarthritis as indicated by reduction of inflammatory cytokines, elevation of anti-inflammatory cytokines and better histopathological score.