Physiotherapy and a Homeopathic Complex for Chronic Low Back Pain Due to Osteoarthritis: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study

Abstract:Context: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common cause of chronic low back pain (CLBP) and can be managed with the use of drug therapy and physiotherapy. Homeopathic remedies may assist in the management of OA; however, research that supports their effectiveness is limited. Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a homeopathic complex in combination with physiotherapy in the treatment of CLBP due to OA. Design: The study was a six-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot. Setting: The study took place in a private physiotherapy practice in Gauteng, South Africa. Participants: The participants were 30 males and females, aged 45-75 years, who were receiving physiotherapy treatment for OA of the lumbar spine from a therapist in private practice. Interventions: The intervention and control groups both received standard physiotherapy treatment—massage, thermal therapy, and joint mobilization—every 2 weeks. In addition, the treatment group received a homeopathic complex—6cH each of Arnica montana, Bryonia alba, Causticum, Kalmia latifolia, Rhus toxicodendron, and Calcarea fluorica. The control group a received a placebo. Outcome measures: The primary measure was a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Secondary outcome measures included the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), an evaluation of each patient’s range of motion (ROM) of the lumbar spine, and a determination of each patient’s need for pain medication..