Determining the Effectiveness of a New Phototherapy Treatment for the Knee Osteoarthritis

HIPL Therapy™ is an advanced phototherapy method that utilizes an emission wavelength spectrum that has been optimized for treatment of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) such as OA.

Participants will take part in education on osteoarthritis, pain neurophysiology, and self-management strategies with the treating physiotherapist. The education will take place during the lab visits and will be brief (5-10 minutes at each session).

Participants will develop an individualized walking program. The goal will be to walk 30 minutes 5 times/week if able. For all participants who are unable to achieve this walking, they will be provided with a progressive walking program that starts at their baseline (the distance they can walk without being sore an hour later; and without feeling like they will be unable to perform their usual activities of daily living because of the walk). They will be encouraged to then progress by 10-20% each week. Participants will be asked to use a provided walking log to keep track of their progress.

Participants will also be instructed how to perform a series of six exercises: squat, step-up, lunge, single leg stance, knee flexion/extension, and resisted hamstring curl. The exercise technique and dosage will be tailored to the individual's current abilities. For example, if someone is unable to squat down to the level of a chair and return to standing, the chair height will be raised until the participant is able to perform the activity. The participants will begin by being asked to complete one set of 8-12 repetitions of each exercise, once daily, then progress to two or three sets daily as able. They will perform the exercises twice/week in the lab where they will receive support for problem solving and progression. Participants will be asked to use a provided exercise log to keep track of their progress.

Phototherapy delivered at an intensity of 5 mW/cm2, a dosage at which there is no therapeutic benefit expected, but the light will still be visible to the participant.