Effectiveness of Intra-Articular Pulsed Radiofrequency in Knee Osteoarthritis

This original article presents a randomized controlled trial aimed at comparing the effects of intra-articular steroid injection (IASI) alone versus IASI combined with intra-articular pulsed radiofrequency (IAPRF) on pain and functional activities in patients with stage II–III knee osteoarthritis. The study involved 54 patients who were randomized into two groups, with Group 1 receiving both IAPRF and steroid injection, while Group 2 received only the steroid injection. The outcomes were evaluated using the Numerical Rating Scale for pain intensity and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index for assessing daily living activities at multiple time points post-treatment. Results indicated that Group 1 experienced significantly lower pain levels and improved participation in daily activities at 12 weeks compared to Group 2. The findings support the additional benefit of IAPRF in managing pain and enhancing functionality in patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, although further research is suggested to confirm these results.