Comparing exercise and topical treatments for knee osteoarthritis

The Comparison of the Effectiveness of Exercise and Topical Agent Treatments in Knee Osteoarthritis: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · NCT05827003

This study is testing whether exercise alone, a mix of exercise and a topical treatment, or just a topical treatment can help people aged 40 to 65 with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and move better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment84 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul University - Cerrahpasa Academic / other
Locations1 site (Istanbul)
Trial IDNCT05827003 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of exercise versus topical agents on individuals diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis. Participants will be voluntarily enrolled and divided into three groups: one focusing on exercise, another combining exercise with a topical agent, and the last using only a topical agent. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of these interventions in alleviating pain and improving function in patients aged 40 to 65 with moderate knee osteoarthritis. The research follows established guidelines for managing osteoarthritis and seeks to provide insights into long-term treatment options.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40 to 65 with diagnosed knee osteoarthritis at stages 2 or 3.

Not a fit: Patients with recent treatments such as injections or physiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-invasive treatment options for managing knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying degrees of success with exercise and topical treatments for osteoarthritis, but this specific comparison is less commonly explored.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed with knee OA according to the criteria of the American Society of Rheumatology
* Stage 2 or 3 according to Kellgren Lawrence radiological staging criteria
* Those between the ages of 40 and 65
* Body mass index below 30 kg/m2
* Pain intensity defined by the patient in the last 3 months is at least 3 out of 10 according to NPRS
* Patients who do not have any obstacles to be included in the exercise program

Exclusion Criteria:

* Using viscosupplementation or steroid injection or systemic steroids in the related knee in the last 3 months
* To have received a physiotherapy program for the relevant knee in the last 3 months
* Having a valgus or varus deformity greater than 15°
* Presence of active infection or tumor
* Presence of neurological diseases and/or deformity leading to lower extremity muscle weakness
* Having serious systemic and cardiovascular diseases that interfere with exercise

Where this trial is running

Istanbul

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Osteo Arthritis KneeDiclofenacNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsPhysiotherapyGonarthrosis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.