The effects of combining electrical stimulation of the calf and thigh muscles on WOMAC pain in knee osteoarthritis: A double-blind, randomised, sham-controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To explore the effectiveness of a NMES device in improving pain and function for individuals with KOA.

Method

This was a randomised, sham-controlled, superiority trial recruiting individuals with symptomatic KOA, with both participants and outcome assessors blinded to the treatment allocation. Participants were randomised to receive either self-administered NMES, consisting of quadriceps (5 times a week) and footplate stimulation (7 times a week), or a sham device for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain domain at week 8.

Results

179 participants were randomised; 50.8 ​% female, mean (SD) age 66.9 (8.7) years. 164 attended the follow up visit. No difference in the WOMAC pain dom

SUBMITTER: Briggs-Price S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12008679 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature