Comparison of the effects of tens and sodium salicylate iontophoresis in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and sodium salicylate Iontophoresis on pain and functional disability in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Twenty (20) subjects participated in this study. Their ages ranged from 40-65 years. They were assigned to either the TENS or Iontophoresis group. The application of TENS was done using an EV 904 unit made by. Electro-medical supplies, while Iontophoresis treatment was delivered using a Galvanic current machine by F.W. Read and Sons London. The subjects levels of pain and functional disability prior to commencement of treatment and after the 6 weeks of treatment was taken using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Disability Index Questionnaire for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint(s). Analysis of data obtained was done using the Mann-Whitney U test and level of significance was set at (P < 0.05). The statistical analysis of the result showed a statistically significant reduction in pain and functional disability in both groups (P < 0.05). Patients treated with Sodium salicylate iontophoresis had a more statistically significant reduction of pain and functional disability in comparison with TENS group (P < 0.05). It is hereby suggested that the use of sodium salicylate iontophoresis and TENS be included in treatment of osteoarthritis to enhance pain relief and functional activity.