The efficacy of homoeopathy in managing knee osteoarthritis: A comparative study with polarity analysis versus classical repertorisation using Boenninghausen’s therapeutic pocket book

Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of polarity analysis (PA) and classical repertorisation (CR) for managing knee OA. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness of individualised homoeopathic medicine for treating OA and evaluate the utility of the CR method. Material and Methods: An open-label, randomised (1:1) trial was conducted at the National Institute of Homoeopathy, Kolkata, India. Patients were randomised to receive homoeopathic medicines repertorised with the PA ( n = 35) or CR ( n = 35) method using Boenninghausen’s therapeutic pocket book (BTPB). The Mann–Whitney test and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test were used to compare the patients at baseline and after 6 months of treatment. Results: No statistically significant difference was seen between the two arms (PA and CR) after 6 months of treatment for the primary outcome. Within-group analysis done at baseline and after 6 months of treatment revealed that homoeopathic treatment and the CR method were effective. The frequently used medicines were Pulsatilla, Bryonia alba, Rhus tox, Sulphur, Calcarea carb, Arnica, Sepia, Phosphorus, Lycopodium, Natrum mur and Nux vomica . Conclusion: Prescriptions made using Heiner Frei’s PA do not produce any effect different from prescriptions made through the CR method using the BTPB in patients with knee OA. The homoeopathic treatment and prescription done through CR were found to be effective in managing knee OA. Further trials of similar design and enhanced methodological rigour are warranted.