Alternative Medicine for Gonarthrosis Pain

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder characterized by the gradual deterioration of articular cartilage, in osteoarthritis, not only the joint cartilage, but also all surrounding tissues, including the synovium, subchondral bone, joint capsule, ligaments, periarticular muscles, and nerves are affected and contribute to the pain. The knee is the most common location for this disease, known as gonarthrosis. In late stages of the disease surgery is the ultimate treatment however before that stage patients seek pain relieving methods for years resulting in repeated trips to physicians. Eventually, they may run out of treatment options and feel desperate. This review investigates the methods of alternative-medicine for alleviating pain in gonarthrosis patients. Alternative treatments, including prolotherapy with intra-tissue substance injection, radiotherapy, and ozone therapy for modifying chemical balances, are explored for their plausibility and safe side effect profiles. However, the review discourages wet-cupping and leech therapy due to potential infection risks. Ancient practices like acupuncture and reflexology, lacking scientific backing for their mechanisms of action, criticized. Homeopathy is categorically dismissed as quackery, and caution is advised against cure-all drugs with extravagant promises. Navigating the intricate interplay of facts and lies, the article underscores the ethical responsibility of physicians, emphasizing the application of scientific truths and the art of medicine which also consist of addressing the patients concerns, reassuring and satisfying them. The review concludes that alternative-medicine should be considered within the medical realm solely for those specific purposes, urging a cautious and evidence-based approach.