Article

This investigation assessed differences between the response of men and women
with knee osteoarthritis to superficial heat, cold, or contrast therapy applied
with a water-circulating system or a standard heating pad, and rest. We further
analyzed data from a previous study to better understand the influence of gender
on the response to treatment based on Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome
Score (KOOS) subscales and a visual analog pain scale (VAS). Using a
within-subject, randomized order design, 34 patients received each treatment in
1-week blocks. A KOOS questionnaire and VAS were completed at baseline and twice
each week. Women were more likely to report clinically meaningful improvement in
pain and symptoms on the KOOS with the use of heat, cold, and a heating pad.
There were no significant differences in response to treatment between men and
women for the function-daily living and quality of life subscales or percent pain
reduction on the VAS. Men and women reported improved quality of life with
intervention. Women are more likely to report clinically meaningful improvement
in pain and symptoms associated with knee OA following the use of superficial
heat, cold, or a heating pad than men.

Langue : ANGLAIS