Knee arthritis is a common condition affecting millions of older adults, causing pain and stiffening in the knee joint. Traditional treatment often involves anti-inflammatory drugs linked to gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. However, new research suggests that simple therapies like knee braces, water therapy, and exercise are more effective than high-tech options.
A meta-analysis published in PLOS One analyzed data from 139 clinical trials involving nearly 10,000 people. The study compared 12 non-drug treatments, including laser therapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. By combining results, the researchers ranked therapies based on their effectiveness.
Knee braces emerged as the top treatment option across most categories, reducing pain, improving function, and relieving stiffness. Hydrotherapy, performed in warm water, was particularly effective at easing pain, while exercise improved both pain and physical function. High-intensity laser therapy and shock wave therapy showed some benefits, but ultrasound scored lowest in effectiveness.
The study’s authors caution that differences in study design and treatment duration may limit the precision of their rankings. However, they conclude that simple therapies like knee braces, hydrotherapy, and exercise offer promising effects on knee arthritis without the risks associated with anti-inflammatory drugs.
As patients and clinicians prioritize these evidence-based options, the researchers hope to reshape clinical guidelines towards safer, lower-cost interventions. Their analysis of nearly 10,000 patients reveals that simple therapies outperform high-tech options, providing a more effective and risk-free treatment approach for knee arthritis sufferers.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-simple-therapies-outperform-high-tech.html