Topical application of analgesics in knee pain: A systematic review

Abstract

Knee pain is a prevalent condition that can significantly impact individuals’ quality of life. Topical analgesics have emerged as a potential noninvasive treatment option for knee pain. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of topical analgesics in managing knee pain. A systematic literature search was conducted in electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) up to May 25, 2023. Studies investigating the topical application of analgesics for knee pain were included. The outcomes of interest encompassed pain relief, functional improvement, adverse events, and patient satisfaction. Six studies met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the systematic review. These studies evaluated various topical analgesics, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs capsaicin, lidocaine, and salicylates. Most of the studies were randomized controlled trials, whereas some were prospective cohort studies. The available evidence suggests that topical application of analgesics may be a viable treatment option for knee pain. However, further research is necessary to establish optimal treatment protocols, evaluate long-term efficacy, and conduct head-to-head comparisons of different topical analgesics. Standardization of outcome measures and study designs would facilitate better comparisons across studies. Additionally, future research should focus on assessing the cost-effectiveness and patient preferences related to topical analgesics for managing knee pain.