Short-Term Outcome of Ultrasound Therapy in Sudanese Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Objectives: the aim of this study is to evaluate the short term effectiveness of therapeutic ultrasound therapy modalities in patient with knee OA. Methodology: This is a prospective, double blinded clinical trial, conducted among 45 participants. Participants were divided into three groups each of 15 patients. In Group A – continuous ultrasound was used, in Group B – pulsed ultrasound was used and in Group C – traditional physiotherapy without ultrasound therapy was used. Groups A and B also received traditional physiotherapy in addition to ultrasound. Visual analog scale, WOMAC questionnaire, range of motion assessment, manual muscle test, and circumference were used for evaluation before and after rehabilitation program. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and multiple regression analysis of variables was done. The ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board at Alneelain University and a verbal and written consent was obtained from the participants before the interview. Result: When comparing the three groups, we Found that no difference in WOMAC score, and there was no differences in the edema and stiffness between the three groups. The only difference was in reduced pain (VAS) in the pulsed group (P-value 0.004*), when compared to the other two groups. Conclusion: Among 45 patients in this study we found that pulsed ultrasound therapy was very effective in reduction of pain, and there was no difference in the WOMAC index score, edema between the three groups at the end of treatment. When comparing the range of motion, Group B showed the greatest improvement in the motion. The traditional physiotherapy group(c) and the two ultrasound therapy groups (A & B) had the same outcomes at the end of treatment programs. Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis, Ultrasound therapy, Pulsed ultrasound, Continuous ultrasound, Traditional physiotherapy, Effect of ultrasound therapy, Outcome of ultrasound therapy.