EVALUATION OF BALNEOLOGICAL TREATMENT ON PAIN, FUNCTION, AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED, CONTROLLED, SINGLE-BLINDED TRIAL

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of balneological treatment in patients with knee osteoarthritis using clinical scales and to determine its effect on pain, function, and quality of life. Material and Method: Thirty-two patients with knee osteoarthritis were divided into two randomization groups. The patients in the study group were given a full bath for 20 min in the hydrotherapy pool at 38 degrees C. Then, medical mud was applied to both knees at 43 degrees C. The second group was not given any specific treatment and continued to receive routine treatment (control group). Patients completed the clinical scales with the blinded physician before treatment/day 1 (baseline), at the end of treatment/day 12, and 3 months. Result: At the end of treatment, WOMAC total, VAS pain, and global assessment scores of patients and physicians were statistically significant improved compared with baseline and thirdmonth controls in the study group. A statistically significant improvement occurred in the 12-d and 3-month Lequesne knee index scores compared with the baseline in the study group. A statistically significant improvement was observed in Nottingham Health Profile pain, emotional reactions, physical movement, and energy scores in the study group on day 12 compared with baseline, and this significant difference continued in the third month for all scores, excluding the energy score. No change was observed in the control group. Conclusion: The positive effects of balneological treatment on pain, functional status, and quality of life in knee osteoarthritis have been demonstrated.