“Effectiveness of Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Versus Trigger Point Dry Needling In Tibiofemoral Osteoarthritis: A Protocol For A Randomized Controlled Trial”

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) degrades cartilage in the knee, resulting in discomfort and impaired physical function. Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) and Trigger Point Dry Needling (TrP-DN) provide effective pain alleviation. PENS modulates nerve impulses, whereas TrP-DN stimulates muscles and connective tissue. Knee osteoarthritis symptoms may improve with these methods.

Aim and Objectives: This randomized controlled experiment will assess the efficacy of percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) with trigger point dry needling in managing tibiofemoral osteoarthritis with TENS as controlled group with common use of exercise.

Method: This randomized controlled experiment will compare three different physiotherapeutic modalities in mild to moderate primary tibiofemoral OA.  180 patients of 50-69 year will be randomized to one of the three treatments, trigger point dry needling, PENS and TENS (control intervention). All three groups will perform self-exercise. The KOOS, (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score), will be the primary outcomes measure.

Result: Data collection for the ClinicalTrials.gov-registered experiment (CTRI/2022/05/042523) is ongoing, projected to conclude by mid-year. Long-term outcome data collection spans January 2023 to July 2024. Following recruitment completion, KOOS scoring and statistical analysis will assess and compare PENS, dry needling, and TENS efficacy.

Conclusion: Upon completion the analysis, we will able to understand the comparative effectiveness of the PENS and dry needling.