Effects of Photobiomodulation and Topical Diclofenac on Inflammation and Pain in Knee Osteoarthritis

Summary

This study aims to compare the effects of combined treatments-dual-wavelength photobiomodulation (PBM) with or without topical diclofenac-on inflammation, pain, and joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). It also seeks to determine the synergistic effect of PBM plus topical diclofenac on inflammatory markers, pain scores, and functional outcomes.

Eligibility

Age range

50–99 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

No

Interventions

• Device
  Photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) device

  FDA-cleared near-infrared PBM device delivering therapeutic light to the affected knee. Administered once per session, approximately 10 minutes after topical application, in six sessions over 2-3 weeks (2-3 times per week).

• Device
  Sham PBM device

  Identical in appearance to the active PBM device but emits no therapeutic light. Administered once per session, approximately 10 minutes after topical application, in six sessions over 2-3 weeks.

• Drug
  Diclofenac Sodium 1 % Topical Cream

  Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug applied at a dose of 4 grams to the affected knee, once per session, immediately before PBM/sham PBM. Used in six sessions over 2-3 weeks.

• Drug
  Placebo topical cream

  Inert cream matching the appearance of diclofenac sodium 1% gel. Applied at 4 grams to the affected knee, once per session, immediately before PBM/sham PBM. Used in six sessions over 2-3 weeks

Location