Comparison of Short-term Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, Low-level Laser Therapy and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy in Knee Osteoarthritis

The ESWT will be administered using an ESWT device (Modus ESWT Compact Model-Portable) once weekly over three consecutive weeks, resulting in a total of three sessions. A radial shockwave mode was chosen for the therapy. During each session, participants will receive 3000 pulses at an 12-Hz frequency and pneumatic pressure of 2.5 bars

The MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser is a specific type of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) that combines two different wavelengths of light-typically 808 nm (near-infrared) and 905 nm (mid-infrared)-to produce therapeutic effects. These wavelengths are delivered simultaneously in a synchronized manner, which is intended to enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment. LLLT will be conducted with the laser device (MLS Laser M6 Robotic Multiwave Lock System, Asalaser, Italy) with the use of protective goggles, and the treatment parameters were set as follows: 100% power, 3 Joules per treatment spot with 904 nm wavelength, and a treatment area of 20 cm². The LLLT will be applied to five points on the anterior part of the joint space, with each point treated for 3 minutes, totaling 15 minutes. A total of 8 sessions were applied for 4 weeks, 2 days a week.

For PEMF, the applicator of the device (Easy QS Magnetotherapy Portable Magnetotherapy Medical Device, Asalaser, Italy) will be positioned to target the medial and lateral aspects of the knee. The treatment parameters were defined as follows: rectangular field shape, 30 Hz frequency, 10 mT intensity, and a duration of 20 minutes. A total of 8 sessions were applied for 4 weeks, 2 days a week.