Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine in the Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: Research Progress on the Combination of Acupuncture and Diclofenac Sodium

Abstract

Short Communication Li et al.: Research Progress on Treatment of Knee OsteoarthritisKnee osteoarthritis is a common chronic joint disease, and although conventional western medical treatments are effective, they also have certain limitations. Therefore, the integration of traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine has attracted attention as a potential treatment approach. Acupuncture, as a traditional Chinese medicine therapy with a long history, can alleviate pain and improve function by regulating the nervous and immune systems. Diclofenac sodium can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The combined application of traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine can leverage the complementary advantages of both approaches, achieving better treatment outcomes. Although existing research supports the effectiveness of acupuncture combined with diclofenac sodium in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, further large-scale and rigorously designed clinical studies are needed to validate its long-term efficacy and safety. The comprehensive evaluation of the combined therapy's effectiveness for knee osteoarthritis includes clinical efficacy, pain relief, functional improvement, enhancement of quality of life and safety. With the continuous progress of scientific research, this therapy is expected to become a more comprehensive and individualized treatment option, improving patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes.