Effectiveness of Extracoporeal shockwave therapy versus ultrasound therapy on functional ability, pain and range of motion in patients with grade 2 & 3 knee osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disorder that leads to pain, reduced range of motion, and difficulty in performing daily activities. Physiotherapy interventions play an important role in the conservative management of knee osteoarthritis. Among various treatment options, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) and Ultrasound Therapy (US) are frequently used modalities; however, limited evidence is available comparing their effectiveness.

This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy and Ultrasound Therapy on functional ability, pain, and range of motion in patients with Grade 2 and Grade 3 knee osteoarthritis. A total of 40 participants diagnosed with Grade 2 and 3 knee osteoarthritis will be randomly allocated into two groups. The experimental group will receive ESWT once a week for four weeks, while the control group will receive Ultrasound Therapy five days a week for four weeks. Both groups will also receive a standardized exercise program as part of routine physiotherapy care.

Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline and after completion of the four-week intervention period. The findings of this study may help in identifying a more effective physiotherapy intervention for improving functional outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis.