Acupuncture for the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: Assessing the Effectiveness and Safety of Therapy Through a Systematic Review

Articles in Press

Document Type : Systematic Review

Authors

1 Professional Nursing Program, Buleleng School of Health Sciences,Bali, Indonesia

2 Nursing Program, Buleleng School of Health Sciences, Bali, Indonesia

3 Professional Nursing Program, Buleleng School of Health Sciences, Bali, Indonesia

10.22038/ebcj.2025.80654.3010

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Acupuncture is increasingly recognized for its efficacy in managing knee osteoarthritis (KOA), offering significant pain relief and fungtional improvements.
Aim: This systematic review aimed to summarize studies reporting on the effectiveness and safeness of acupuncture in KOA patients. This systematic revies aimed synthesize recent studies from 2018-2022, evaluating acupuntures’s effectiveness and safety in KOA patients.
Method: Initially, 335 articles were screened, with 7 meeting inclusion criteria based on rigorous selection following Cochrane Collaboration Search Strategy and PRISMA guidelines. We used the critical appraisal tool from JBI to assess the quality of each study, a total of All types of acupuncture therapy could reduce pain scale and improve function in KOA patients.
Results: These studies consistently demonstrated that various forms of acupuncture therapy significantly reduce pain (p=0.001-0.008) and enhance functional outcomes (p=0.001-0.027) among KOA patients. Pain relief was evaluated using the visual analogue scale, while functional improvements were assessed through WOMAC scores. Secondary outcome, including quality of life measured by SF-12 and AqoL-SF36 scales, also showed significant enhancements (p=0.001-0.057)
Implications for Practice: Healthcare providers are encouraged to consider patient preferences and treatment goals when recommending acupuncture, ensuring personalized care that addresses both symptomatic relief and functional recovery. Continued research and clinical integration of acupuncture are pivotal in advancing treatment options for osteoarthritis, promoting improved outcomes and patient well-being.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Evidence Based Care

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 April 2025

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