Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting joint cartilage and its surrounding tissue. It is the leading cause of disability in the elderly. Photobiomodulation (PBM), has been used widely for alleviation of pain, reduction of inflammation, and acceleration of wound healing, and particularly to treat knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The purpose of the current study is to determine if a near-infrared PBM device (B-Cure Laser), applied at home, by the patient or personal caregiver in a real-life situation, can reduce pain and improve functionality in patients with KOA.
Diagnoses of knee osteoarthritis by American College of Rheumatology (ACR)
Kellgren & Lawrence classification 1-3
Knee pain on movement 40 to 90 mm Visual Analog Scale
Knee pain and related functional reduction for at least 1 month
Pregnant or nursing, or with the ability to become pregnant and not using an accepted form of birth control
Other causes of knee-related pain (e.g. hip OA, arterial insufficiency, radiculopathy etc) have been ruled out by physical examinations.
Knee surgery for KOA
Intra-articular steroid injection and/or oral steroid treatment within the last six months