High-Intensity Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy for Pain Relief and Strengthening in Older Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of high-intensity pulsed electromagnetic field therapy HI-PEMF in older adults with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis OA. This randomized, double-blind clinical trial compares two treatment methods HI-PEMF applied only to the knee joint versus HI-PEMF applied both to the knee and the quadriceps muscles. The study aims to understand pain reduction and improvement in functional performance in this population, addressing common issues such as muscle weakness and frailty associated with knee OA. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group A will receive HI-PEMF therapy focused exclusively on the symptomatic knee for 10 minutes per session, twice weekly for 5 weeks, totaling 9 sessions. Group B will receive HI-PEMF therapy applied to both the knee and the quadriceps muscle, with each site treated for 10 minutes per session under the same schedule. Both groups will also follow a standardized, home-based exercise program involving five specific strengthening and mobility exercises performed three times per week during the 5-week treatment period. The BTL-6000 Super Inductive System device is used for all HI-PEMF treatments. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start, after the 5-week intervention, and at a 2-month follow-up. Researchers will measure changes in pain using the Numeric Analog Scale NAS, functional mobility through the Timed Up and Go TUG test, and lower-limb strength with the 5-times Sit-to-Stand 5STS test. Additional evaluations include monitoring paracetamol use, frailty, sarcopenia, and radiological OA grade. Adherence to treatment sessions and exercises will be closely followed, and safety monitored throughout the study, which lasts a total of about three months including follow-up.

"Bimodal vs Unimodal High-Intensity Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy in Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis"