The effects of oxygen-ozone therapy in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Oxygen-ozone therapy (OOT) is an innovative treatment showing potential for various conditions, including knee osteoarthritis (KOA), a joint disorder causing cartilage degeneration, inflammation, and pain. This review evaluates OOT's effectiveness in treating KOA, focusing on pain relief, joint function, and quality of life. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The review synthesizes findings from five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing OOT with standard treatments such as corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and placebo, assessing its effects on pain relief, joint function, and quality of life. RESULTS: OOT significantly reduces pain and improves joint mobility in KOA patients, with some studies reporting longer-lasting effects than corticosteroids. OOT also shows anti-inflammatory benefits by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a potential to modify disease mechanisms. It is minimally invasive and has fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments. CONCLUSIONS: OOT presents a promising alternative to conventional treatments, offering pain relief, functional improvement, and safety benefits. Despite some limitations, such as treatment variability and lack of long-term follow-up, OOT is a valuable therapeutic option for KOA.