Cupping in Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial on Pulsatile Cupping in Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Knee.

The purpose of this exploratory randomised trial is to study the effect of pulsatile cupping in osteoarthritis of the knee compared to waiting list control.

Cupping is a traditional therapy in many cultures of the world and is used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. In this randomised trial we want to study the effect of pulsatile cupping in osteoarthritis of the knee compared to waiting list control. Pulsatile cupping is administered by a special cupping machine (HeVaTec) with silicone cupping glasses to the knee joint. Pulsatile pressure is generated by a pump that generates vacuum.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Osteoarthritis of the knee according ACR-criteria
• X-ray classification minimum Kellgren-Lawrence criteria grade 2
• Pain Intensity > 40 mm VAS
• Only therapy with NSAIDin the last 4 weeks
• Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Use of anticoagulants (Phenprocoumon, Heparin)
• Coagulopathy
• Cupping in the last 12 months
• Intraarticular injection of corticosteroids or NSAID into the knee joint in the last 4 months
• Use of systemic corticosteroids in the last 4 weeks
• Physical therapy, leeches or acupuncture in the last 4 months
• Other CAM therapies for the osteoarthritis in the last 4 weeks
• Arthroscopy of the knee joint in the last 12 months
• Paracetamol allergy or intolerance