Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Basic Science

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is reported to be a major health problem worldwide and a main source of disability and handicap, which leads to considerable socioeconomic costs. Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of laser on acupuncture points in management of knee Osteoarthritis. Design: Pre and posttest design. Participants: Thirty patients with moderate knee osteoarthritis from both sexes were selected, aged between 40-60 years old. All patients were referred from the outpatient clinic of Mounira General Hospital in Cairo and were divided randomly into two equal groups. Methods: Group (A) 15 patients received low level laser on acupuncture points and conventional exercises. Group (B) 15 Patients received placebo laser and conventional exercises. Treatment was done 3 times a week for 4 weeks. Pain level, range of motion and functional performance were measured before and after treatment by visual analogue scale, digital goniometer and WOMAC questionnaire respectively. Results: There were significant statistical differences within the two groups before and after treatment. Active laser group (A) demonstrated high significant improvement in pain, knee ROM and function ability compared with Placebo laser group (B). Conclusion: The study revealed that application of low level laser on acupuncture points was effective modality for managing chronic knee osteoarthritis

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