Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2025
Author Spotlight: Fu's Subcutaneous Needling for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain
Published on: March 24, 2023
Maximizing Knee OA Treatment: A Comparative Look at Physiotherapy and Injections
Danilo Donati1,2, Federica Giorgi3, Tarantino Domiziano4,5
1Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy.
Background:
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent and disabling condition often managed with physiotherapy or intra-articular injections. However, the comparative effectiveness of these treatments remains unclear. This systematic review aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of physiotherapy and intra-articular injections in managing knee OA.
Methods:
A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and Cochrane Library was conducted. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing physiotherapy and intra-articular injections in knee OA patients were included. Key outcomes included pain (VAS), function (WOMAC, KOOS), range of motion (ROM), and quality of life. Data from five studies with a total of 552 participants were analyzed.
Results:
Intra-articular injections, particularly botulinum toxin and hyaluronic acid, were found to provide rapid pain relief, outperforming physiotherapy in short-term pain management. However, physiotherapy contributed significantly to long-term functional improvements, particularly in early-stage OA. Combination therapy of injections and physiotherapy yielded the best short-term pain relief and functional outcomes. Heterogeneity in study designs and follow-up periods limited the generalizability of findings.
Conclusions:
Intra-articular injections are effective for immediate pain control, while physiotherapy plays a crucial role in maintaining joint function, especially for long-term management. Combining both interventions may offer the most comprehensive benefits. Further research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy of these treatments.
