Optimal High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) Parameters for Pain and Function in Patients With Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study aims to find the best settings (dose) for High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) to reduce pain and improve function in people with moderate knee osteoarthritis. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of three different doses of HILT (low, medium, or high) or a sham (placebo) laser treatment, three times a week for four weeks. The main outcomes measured will be changes in knee pain (using a pain scale) and knee function (using a questionnaire) from the beginning to the end of the 4-week treatment period.
• Age between 45 and 75 years, inclusive. Clinical diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis according to American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria (knee pain plus at least 3 of 6: age \>50, morning stiffness \<30 min, crepitus, bony tenderness, bony enlargement, no palpable warmth).
• Radiographic evidence of knee osteoarthritis corresponding to Kellgren-Lawrence grade II or III in the target knee.
• Average knee pain intensity ≥ 4 on a 10-cm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during weight-bearing activities in the past week.
• Willingness and ability to attend 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks and attend all assessment sessions.