Traditional Chinese Medicine for Knee Osteoarthritis
Author Information
Author(s): Yuelong Cao, Hongsheng Zhan, Jian Pang, Feiyue Li, Shaojian Xu, Jinghua Gao, Zhanwang Xu, Gang Li, Ting Liu, Chaoqing Guo, Yinyu Shi
Primary Institution: Research Institute of Orthopaedics, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hypothesis
An individually integrated TCM approach is more effective than four treatment modalities used separately.
Conclusion
The study aims to compare the efficacy of an integrated TCM approach with other treatments for knee osteoarthritis.
Supporting Evidence
- Knee osteoarthritis is a major public health issue causing chronic disability worldwide.
- Many sufferers are using complementary and alternative medicine to alleviate their symptoms.
- Evidence has only validated acupuncture for the management of osteoarthritic pain.
- The individually integrated TCM approach has been formed during 15 years of clinical experience.
Takeaway
This study is looking at whether a special mix of traditional Chinese medicine can help people with knee pain better than using just one treatment at a time.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial involving 500 participants across five hospitals, comparing an integrated TCM approach with other treatments over four weeks.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to lack of blinding for therapists and investigators.
Limitations
The study lacks placebo control and double blinding.
Participant Demographics
Outpatients aged 38 to 75 with painful knee osteoarthritis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website