Effect of dry cupping versus soft and prolonged massage in the management of knee osteoarthritis – a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal diseases which leads to functional decline and loss of quality of life. Knee osteoarthritis is considered as highly burdensome disease as well as highest contributor to global disability. Ḥijāmah (Cupping Therapy) and Dalk (Massage) are claimed effective in the treatment of Wajaʹul Mafāṣil (osteoarthritis). Present study was framed to compare the efficacy of Ḥijāmah bilā Sharṭ (Dry Cupping) and Dalk-i-Layyin Kathīr (soft and prolonged massage) with Roghan-i-Bābūna (chamomile oil) in the management of Wajaʹ ur Rukbah (knee osteoarthritis). Methods In present randomised controlled clinical trial, a total of 48 diagnosed patients of knee osteoarthritis were allocated randomly into group A (n=24) and group B (n=24). Group A was treated with soft and prolonged massage with Roghan-i-Bābūna while group B was managed with dry cupping on alternate day for 15 min. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Knee osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS) were used for the assessment of efficacy. A total of 40 patients, group A (n=20) and group B (n=20), were completed the allocated duration of protocol therapy and were restricted to statistical analysis. Results Statistically highly significant improvement was observed in objective parameters using both paired and unpaired t-tests. VAS and all KOOS subscales were found to be strongly significant at 20th day when compared with baseline (p<0.001). In intergroup comparison significant change (p>0.05) was not observed. Safety parameters were in their normal range after treatment. Conclusions Dalk-i-Layyin Kathīr with Roghan-i-Bābūna and Ḥijāmah bilā Sharṭ both were found safe and effective in the management of Wajaʹur Rukbah. Hence, it may be concluded that both regimenal therapies are safe, effective and almost equal in their efficacy in the management of Knee Osteoarthritis.