Background/aim: This study aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of conventional physical therapy (CPT) methods for knee osteoarthritis (OA) and transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy, a relatively new and increasingly used treatment modality, based on patient clinical outcomes assessments.
Materials and methods: Two groups of 54 patients, aged 40 to 75, were randomly assigned. CPT was given to both groups. In addition to CPT, Group 2 underwent TECAR therapy for six sessions, three times a week for two weeks. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) was used to measure the disability and pain levels of each patient before and at the end of treatment and at 1 month and 3 months. Additionally, goniometric measurements of each patient's knee joint range of motion and isometric quadriceps muscle strength were taken.
Results: Significant improvements were noted in the VAS, WOMAC, and isometric quadriceps strength ratings in both groups between the pre- and posttreatment follow-ups. However, there was no discernible difference between the groups.
Conclusion: For the conservative treatment of OA in the knee, TECAR therapy may be a helpful therapeutic approach.
Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis; isometric quadriceps strength; transfer energy capacitive and resistive therapy.
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