Effect of Traditional Chinese Non-Pharmacological Therapies on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Narrative Review of Clinical Application and Mechanism

Abstract

Zhi-Feng Liu,* Yang Zhang,* Jing Liu, Yu-Yan Wang, Mo Chen, Er-Yang Liu, Jun-Ming Guo, Yan-Hua Wang, Zhi-Wen Weng, Chang-Xin Liu, Chang-He Yu, Xi-You Wang Tuina and Pain Management Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Affilliated Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Chang-He Yu; Xi-You Wang, Email [email protected]; [email protected]: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) stands as a degenerative ailment with a substantial and escalating prevalence. The practice of traditional Chinese non-pharmacological therapy has become a prevalent complementary and adjunctive approach. A mounting body of evidence suggests its efficacy in addressing KOA. Recent investigations have delved into its underlying mechanism, yielding some headway. Consequently, this comprehensive analysis seeks to encapsulate the clinical application and molecular mechanism of traditional Chinese non-pharmacological therapy in KOA treatment. The review reveals that various therapies, such as acupuncture, electroacupuncture, warm needle acupuncture, tuina, and acupotomy, primarily target localized knee components like cartilage, subchondral bone, and synovium. Moreover, their impact extends to the central nervous system and intestinal flora. More perfect experimental design and more comprehensive research remain a promising avenue in the future.Keywords: knee osteoarthritis, traditional Chinese non-pharmacological therapy, mechanism, acupuncture, tuina, acupotomy

Keywords

• knee osteoarthritis
• traditional chinese non-pharmacological therapy
• mechanism
• acupuncture
• tuina
• acupotomy