Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026
08:40
Application of Acupotomy in a Knee Osteoarthritis Model in Rabbit
Published on: October 20, 2023
Supervised exercise plus acupuncture for moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis: a small randomised controlled trial
Anushka Soni1, Abhay Joshi, Nicola Mudge
1Department of Rheumatology, The Great Western Hospital, Swindon, Wiltshire, UK.
Summary
Combined acupuncture and physiotherapy before total knee replacement did not significantly improve patient outcomes. While some patients improved, the study was underpowered, suggesting a need for larger trials on knee osteoarthritis treatments.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pain Management
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Total knee replacement (TKR) is effective but 20% of patients report dissatisfaction post-surgery.
- Preoperative acupuncture and supervised exercise show potential for symptom reduction and functional improvement in knee osteoarthritis (OA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the combined effect of acupuncture and physiotherapy on preoperative and postoperative pain and function in patients awaiting TKR.
Main Methods:
- 56 patients awaiting TKR were randomized to receive either combined physiotherapy/acupuncture or a standardized exercise/advice leaflet.
- Pain and function were assessed using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) at baseline, 6, 12 weeks, and 3 months postoperatively.
Main Results:
- The study was underpowered due to waiting time targets, failing to achieve the required sample size.
- No significant differences in OKS were found between the treatment and control groups.
- Seven patients (six in the treatment group) withdrew due to symptomatic improvement, suggesting a potential benefit.
Conclusions:
- Combined acupuncture and physiotherapy did not improve postoperative outcomes in patients with moderate to severe knee OA awaiting TKR.
- A larger, adequately powered trial is necessary to further investigate these findings and the potential benefits of this combined approach.
