Therapeutic Effectiveness and Safety of Mesotherapy in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of mesotherapy by comparing it with the classic systematic therapy in patients with osteoarthritis (OA).

METHODS

Sixty patients were included and classified into two groups based on the existence of contraindications for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These patients were treated with oral NSAIDs (Group A) or mesotherapy (Group B). After completing the treatment, the patients were followed up for 6 months. Their clinical features, laboratory results, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients completed treatment and follow-up. The patients in Group B had significantly fewer gastric acid-related complaints and requested less supplementary treatment for recurrent pain ( < 0.05). The patients in both groups exhibited decreased blood viscosity after treatment ( < 0.05). WOMAC scores, specifically those for pain and stiffness, were found to be significantly improved after either type of treatment ( < 0.05). Mesotherapy also ameliorated physical function ( < 0.05). Furthermore, Group B presented with better outcomes than Group A ( < 0.05 or < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that mesotherapy is an effective and safe treatment for patients with OA. Clinicians should consider mesotherapy as an alternative therapy for patients with contraindications for NSAID use.