COMPLEMENTARY ULTRASOUND THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS-RELATED KNEE PAIN AND DYSFUNCTION: A CASE REPORT

Introduction: Ultrasound therapy is an evidence-based method for the treatment of knee joint osteoarthritis due to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and regeneration properties. In addition, phonophoresis has more potency to reduce pain and inflammation, combining therapeutic ultrasound with medical substances, penetrating the tissues. Complementary medicine implements essential oil-based formulations in physical therapy in order to optimize the effectiveness of the ultrasound modality. Purpose: to assess the therapeutic effect of complementary ultrasound therapy in the management of osteoarthritis-related knee pain. Materials and methods: Materials: A 55-year-old male suffering from osteoarthritis-related left knee joint pain, undergoing complementary ultrasound therapy at the University Center for Eastern Medicine. Methods: Ultrasound therapy with an essential oil-based cream formulation against joint and muscle pain. Results: There is an improvement in symptoms on the second day, with a reduction in pain and swelling, and an increased range of motion in the knee joint in the short term, compared to conventional physical therapy. Conclusion: Complementary ultrasound therapy using pure essential oil-based enriched formulation is a novel method to obtain synergy of essential oils, empowering the physiological and therapeutic action of ultrasound therapy.