A Non-Randomized Single Blind Study To Assess The Effectiveness Of Homoeopathic Medicines In The Management Of Pain In Patients Of Primary (Idiopathic)Osteoarthritis Of Knee Above The Age Group Of 40 Years

Abstract

BACKGROUND- In terms of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent form. It is a major contributor to old disability due to its high prevalence, particularly in the elderly and detrimental effects on physical function. The knee, hip, first metatarsal phalangeal joint (MTP), cervical spine, and lumbar spine are among the joints that are frequently impacted. Patients who do not respond well to conventional medical therapy and are unable or unwilling to undergo surgery have a particular need for such medications. The goal of this study was to find out if individuals with Osteoarthritis of knee joint pain can be successfully managed with homoeopathic medicines.

OBJECTIVE- The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of the Homoeopathic Medicines in reducing joint pain of Patients of Osteoarthritis of Knee

METHOD- It is a non-randomized, single blind clinical study conducted at the outpatient department of Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Homoeopathic College & Research Centre, Pune. Total 37 patients (Male & Female) belonging to the age group of above 40 years were enrolled in this study. Out of which, 07 patients dropped out and 30 patients completed their follow up. Osteoarthritis of Knee joint pain observed according to the Numerical Pain Rating Scale and intensity of symptoms was recorded

RESULT- The final outcome was reduction in intensity and severity, and reoccurrence of pain in the cases of Osteoarthritis of Knee joint. Homoeopathic medicine was administered based on totality of symptom presented by the patients. The most common homoeopathic medicine prescribed was Bryonia (33.33%), followed by Rhus Tox, Ruta G(16.67%), Ledum pal, Sulphur, Calcarea Carb, Apis and Causticum. A student paired "t" test was used for analysis because of the small sample size. A significant drop in Numerical Pain Rating Scale was seen after the treatment, patients reported symptom improvement, and no adverse effects were recorded. The mean reduction in intensity of symptoms in Osteoarthritis of Knee joint is 5.3±1.76 and test statistics value was 16.45 and ‘p’ value was 0.000** which was very small after completion of study.

CONCLUSION- Pain in Osteoarthritis of knee joint can be effectively managed with homoeopathic medicines. Additional research with a larger sample size and control group will provide more evidence that homoeopathy is effective.