Effects of ginger on primary knee osteoarthritis

Abstract 

Introduction

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain, but because of their side effects, search continues for agents that might provide improvement in symptoms with minimal additional risk. Evidence from previous studies suggests that ginger can reduce osteoarthritis pain. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of indomethacin and ginger on relieving osteoarthritis pain.

Materials and Methods

A double blind, parallel group clinical trial was designed to evaluate the response of 52 patients with knee osteoarthritis to ginger and indomethacin.

Results

Analysis of the mean for pain on standing (based on 100 mm visual analogue scale) showed improvement in both groups (22.5 mm in indomethacin group and 23 mm in ginger group, P value = 0.1). Results of improvement in pain after walking 50 feet were similar in both groups (23.5 mm in indomethacin group and 21.4 mm in ginger group, P value = 0.34). Changes in total Western Ontario and MacMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score were significant in both groups (4.62 in indomethacin group and 3.39 in ginger group, P value = 0.65).

Conclusion

Ginger is as effective as indomethacin in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis with negligible side effects. Therefore in patients with intolerance to indomethacin, ginger may be substituted.

Keywords:  Alternative medicine , ginger (Zingiber officinale) , osteoarthritis , pain

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