Can Knee Osteoarthritis Be Treated with Electrical Stimulation?

Electrical stimulation therapy can be used to alleviate the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, but its use should be guided by a doctor based on specific conditions. As a form of physical therapy, electrical stimulation primarily promotes local blood circulation, reduces pain and inflammation through heat, but it cannot cure the pathological changes of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is caused by the degeneration of cartilage due to prolonged wear and tear and external stimuli on the knee joint, leading to the formation of bone spurs at the edges of bones. It is common in middle-aged and elderly people, mainly manifesting as knee pain, stiffness, and even limited mobility.

Electrical stimulation is mainly applicable for mild to moderate pain caused by osteoarthritis and can be used after the acute inflammatory phase to provide some relief. However, in cases of severe intra-articular inflammation, obvious swelling, or accompanying joint effusion, electrical stimulation may exacerbate symptoms. Relying solely on electrical stimulation cannot halt the progression of osteoarthritis and other comprehensive treatments are needed.

Osteoarthritis is caused by prolonged wear and tear and external stimuli on the knee joint, leading to cartilage degeneration and the formation of bone spurs at the edges of bones. It is common in middle-aged and elderly people, mainly manifesting as knee pain, stiffness, and even limited mobility. Electrical stimulation is mainly applicable for mild to moderate pain caused by osteoarthritis and can be used after the acute inflammatory phase to provide some relief. However, in cases of severe intra-articular inflammation, obvious swelling, or accompanying joint effusion, electrical stimulation may exacerbate symptoms. Relying solely on electrical stimulation cannot halt the progression of osteoarthritis and other comprehensive treatments are needed.

To better improve the condition, the following methods can be used in conjunction with electrical stimulation therapy: 1. Taking medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation and pain, and glucosamine to assist in cartilage repair. 2. Joint injections of small doses of sodium hyaluronate to lubricate the joint. 3. Improving mobility through moderate exercise such as swimming or stretching exercises in daily life to avoid excessive knee load. Increasing the intake of calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods such as milk and dark green leafy vegetables to promote bone health. For severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical treatment such as arthroscopic debridement or knee replacement may be necessary, and doctors will provide personalized recommendations based on the condition.

If there are uncomfortable symptoms, one should consult an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible to avoid worsening of the condition.