Therapeutic Effectiveness and Safety of Mesotherapy in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of mesotherapy by comparing it with the classic systematic therapy in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). METHODS: Sixty patients were included and classified into two groups based on the existence of contraindications for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These patients were treated with oral NSAIDs (Group A) or mesotherapy (Group B). After completing the treatment, the patients were followed up for 6 months. Their clinical features, laboratory results, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 50 patients completed treatment and follow-up. The patients in Group B had significantly fewer gastric acid-related complaints and requested less supplementary treatment for recurrent pain (p < 0.05). The patients in both groups exhibited decreased blood viscosity after treatment (p < 0.05). WOMAC scores, specifically those for pain and stiffness, were found to be significantly improved after either type of treatment (p < 0.05). Mesotherapy also ameliorated physical function (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Group B presented with better outcomes than Group A (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that mesotherapy is an effective and safe treatment for patients with OA. Clinicians should consider mesotherapy as an alternative therapy for patients with contraindications for NSAID use.