Research: Osteoarthritis: Study Findings

This study examined whether auricular acupressure could relieve knee pain and reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medications in patients with early-stage knee osteoarthritis. In this randomized, sham-controlled trial, 62 participants over 40 years old received either true auricular acupressure at specific points related to the knee joint or a placebo treatment at non-acupuncture points. Results showed that those in the auricular acupressure group reported significant pain reduction and improved joint function, as measured by pain and arthritis indexes, with a reduced need for medications. This suggests auricular acupressure may be a supportive, non-invasive treatment for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.