2025, Vol. 12, Issue 6, Part E

Background: Chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of joint pain and mobility limitation among older adults. Physiotherapy interventions, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and joint mobilization, are commonly used to manage symptoms non-pharmacologically.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of joint mobilization combined with TENS in relieving pain and improving functional mobility in individuals with chronic knee OA. Methodology: A total of 24 participants were recruited and assigned into two groups. Group A received joint mobilization combined with TENS, while Group B received TENS alone. The intervention was conducted over four weeks, with treatments provided twice weekly. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and functional mobility was measured with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), both before and after the intervention.

Result: The results showed a significant reduction in pain and improvement in functional mobility for both groups (P<.01). The results showed a significant difference in pain level between both groups (P=.03), but no significant difference in functional mobility between both groups (P=.46).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that joint mobilization, when used together with TENS, may enhance pain management in patients with chronic knee OA. Although functional improvements were not significant within the short intervention period, the combined approach may prepare patients for more active rehabilitation in later stages. Further research with longer durations and larger sample sizes is recommended.