Effects of an aromatherapy-integrated exercise program on knee pain and physical function in community-dwelling older adults with osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a major cause of chronic pain in older adults and negatively affects physical function and daily life. Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy with potential pain‐relieving effects. However, evidence supporting its use alongside exercise in older adults is limited. In this single‐blind randomized controlled trial, participants with knee pain ≥ 40 mm on the visual analog scale (VAS) were assigned to either an aromatherapy combined with exercise group (ACG) or an exercise control group (ECG). Both groups participated in 60‐minute rehabilitation sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks. During the intervention, participants were instructed to apply essential oils or a placebo oil to their knee. The Chinese version of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and objective mobility function were assessed before and after the intervention. Data from 28 participants were analyzed. Within‐group analyses revealed that the ACG showed significant improvements in KOOS movement‐related pain, daily function, and knee‐related quality of life. Gait speed and Chair Stand Test performance also improved significantly in the ACG. However, between‐group comparisons showed no significant differences in KOOS subscales or functional outcomes at post‐intervention. These findings indicate that although within‐group improvements were observed in the aromatherapy combined with exercise group, the additional effect of aromatherapy beyond exercise alone was not demonstrated in this study. Further research with larger samples is needed to clarify the potential role of aromatherapy as an adjunct to exercise in older adults with knee OA.