Current status and research gaps of neuromodulation in the rehabilitation of knee osteoarthritis: a scoping review
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By
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Hengjia Liu
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Qiang Tang
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July 15, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Overview and Research Deficiencies in Neuromodulation Approaches for Knee Osteoarthritis Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) |
| Key Mechanisms | Neuromodulation techniques including peripheral and central approaches. |
| Target Population | Middle-aged and elderly individuals, particularly women. |
| Care Setting | Clinical rehabilitation settings. |
Key Highlights
- Neuromodulation shows promise as a non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategy for KOA.
- Various techniques include TENS, NMES, tDCS, and electroacupuncture.
- Efficacy in pain relief and functional improvement observed, but protocols vary widely.
- Research gaps identified in intervention standardization and long-term efficacy evaluation.
- Future studies needed to optimize clinical protocols and clarify mechanisms.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess knee osteoarthritis through clinical evaluation and imaging.
Management
- Consider neuromodulation techniques as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Evaluate pain relief and functional improvement post-intervention.
Risks
- Potential for variability in efficacy and adverse reactions depending on the technique used.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with knee osteoarthritis, particularly those with limited response to traditional interventions.
Neuromodulation techniques may provide alternative options for pain management and functional improvement.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement standardized protocols for neuromodulation interventions.
- Conduct long-term efficacy evaluations to assess sustained benefits.
- Explore underlying mechanisms of action to enhance treatment personalization.
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