Randomization and interventions
pain, KOA
POLAND
Participants were randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups using a computer-generated random allocation software sequence. This task was performed by the clinic secretary, who was not involved in the study, prior to the pre-intervention assessment once the eligibility criteria were confirmed.PEMFT and LLLT were administered by experienced physiotherapists who underwent a 1-h training of the study protocol. Although physiotherapists could not be blinded to the treatment group, they were not involved in the assessment process and were unaware of the participants’ assessment results during the study period.Both PEMFT and LLLT were administered using a PhysioGo™ 500I device (Astar Company, Poland) with different applicators. The treatment parameters and intensity of the modalities were set as per the fixed protocol of the device that was appropriate for KOA and according to the patient’s group allocation. The intervention was performed with the patient in the supine position with the headrest raised and their knee supported on a pillow, resulting in approximately 15°–30° of flexion depending on the comfort and pain reported by the patient. Each treatment modality was administered for six sessions over a 3-week period. Participants were instructed to continue with their usual daily activities during the study period without starting any new physical activity that might aggravate their pain.LLLT was performed while wearing goggles, and the treatment parameters were as follows: power, 100%; dose, 8 J/cmFor PEMFT, the applicator was focused over the medial and lateral sides of the knee (see Additional file 