The effect of acupressure therapy on pain, stiffness and physical functioning of knees among older adults diagnosed with osteoarthritis: A pilot randomized control trial

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common and fast-growing chronic diseases among older adults. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of acupressure therapy on pain, stiffness, and physical functioning of a knee affected by osteoarthritis. Methods: A single-blind pilot randomized control trial was conducted on 51 older adults with OA of the knee living in one of 3 nursing homes. Nursing homes were randomly allocated to one of three study groups; acupressure therapy, placebo, and routine care. The intervention group received acupressure therapy on eight acupoints. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) total score and the separate WOMAC subscales were used to evaluate pain, stiffness and physical functioning of knees. Results: A one-way ANOVA revealed that WOMAC index was not significantly different at the baseline between the three groups (P = 0.296). After intervention, ANOVA showed significant differences between groups in regard to total WOMAC index, pain and physical dysfunction (p < 0.001). Post hoc comparisons revealed that participants receiving acupressure showed a significant decrease in total WOMAC index, pain and physical dysfunction (p < 0.001). Indeed ANCOVA detected a difference in means of pain (p <= 0.001), stiffness (p = 0.038) and physical dysfunction (p <= 0.001) in three groups. Conclusion: Acupressure may be an effective intervention for reducing the pain, stiffness, and improving the function of knees with osteoarthritis.