Evaluation of the efficiency of massage and ice application with nettle-ginger essential oils in patients with knee osteoarthritis

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of nettle and ginger essential oil massage and ice application on pain levels in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The population of the study consisted of 360 patients who applied to the Orthopedic Outpatient Clinic of Metin Sabancı Baltalimanı Bone Diseases Training and Research Hospital. In this context, 66 individuals, 22 for aromatherapy, 22 for ice application and 22 for control group, were included in the study with the power analysis. Eight (8) treatments were administered to the individuals two (2) times a week. After each application, patients were asked to complete the numeric rating scale (NRS) and Case Report Form (ORF). The data obtained were evaluated with the help of statistical program. It was determined that 86.4% of the participants were women, 59.1% were not working and 95.5% had health insurance. It was determined that 63.6% of the massage group, 36.4% of the ice group and 40.9% of the control group had a history of surgery. NRS 1st session value was highest in massage group whereas NRS 8th session value was lowest in massage group. Although the NRS 8th session values decreased significantly in all three groups, the highest decrease was seen in the massage group. According to the results, massage with essential oils can be used as an alternative and effective treatment method for patients with knee osteoarthritis. Key words: Aromatherapy, Ginger, Ice application, Knee Osteoarthritis, Massage, Nettle.