THE EFFECT OF SWEDISH MASSAGE AND CONTRAST HYDRIATIC APPLICATIONON PAIN, EDEMA AND EFFUSION IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS PATIENTS

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease-causing pain and disability. This study focused on 40 patients (age 33-85) with mild to moderate radiographic KOA. Swedish Massage (SM) and Contrast hydriatic applications were administered, aiming to manage pain, edema, and effusion effectively and economically.

Pain intensity, edema, and effusion were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS), edema grading system, and Knee Joint Stroke Test, respectively. Paired "t" tests compared pre and post-scores. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in pain, edema, and effusion after Swedish massage and contrast hydriatic application.

Before treatment, the mean pain level was 6.48±0.22, reducing significantly to 1.58±0.16 post-treatment. Edema decreased from 2.58±0.14 to 0.5±0.09, and knee joint effusion reduced from 0.8±0.09 to 0.26±0.06 after treatment. These findings support the hypothesis that Swedish massage with alternating hot and cold applications effectively reduces pain, swelling, and effusion in KOA patients, enhancing their daily activities and overall quality of life. Participants also reported improved knee joint mobility, relaxation, emotional well-being, and a positive impact on their overall quality of life. This study advocates the incorporation of these interventions into the management of KOA due to their simplicity, safety, and cost-effectiveness