Magnet Therapy versus Electroacupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder often managed with pharmacological therapies, which may cause adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effects of magnet therapy (MT) and electroacupuncture (EA) in the treatment of KOA. Methods: A randomized, double-blind trial involved 93 KOA patients divided into three groups: MT, EA, and routine treatment (RT). Eligible participants had confirmed KOA, pain lasting over three months, and walking ability. Outcomes, assessed by a specialist, included pain intensity, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and knee function, stiffness, and pain via the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at baseline, after 10 treatment sessions, and one-month post-treatment. The trial was registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20100129003220N11). Results: Participants had a mean age of 67.44±5.18 years. Significant differences were observed across groups in pain, 6-minute walk test, WOMAC scores, stiffness, and physical function (P<0.001). All variables showed significant changes over the three time points (P<0.05), with distinct trends in mean changes among groups (P<0.001). Conclusion: MT outperformed EA and RT in reducing pain, stiffness, and WOMAC scores while improving physical function and 6MWT outcomes in KOA patients.