Indian Journal of Gerontology
  • Year: 2025
  • Volume: 39
  • Issue: 1

Improving quality of life in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis through homeopathy: A case report

  • Author:
  • S Stevenson, Vinodini V. Patil
  • Total Page Count: 11
  • Page Number: 86 to 96

Department of Homoeopathic Philosophy and Organon of Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Homoeopathic Medical College, Pune, (M.S.)

Online published on 22 August, 2025.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of homeopathic medicine in managing osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms and enhancing the quality of life of a 60- year-old woman with chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA). The patient s progress was assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) before and after six months of homeopathic treatment, as well as the Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homoeopathy (MONARCH) to showa causal relationship between treatment and outcome. The patient showed marked improvement after treatment with homeopathic remedies Bryoniaalba 200C and Lachesis mutus 200C. WOMAC scores revealed significant reductions in pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities. The patient also experienced better blood sugar control and relief from varicose vein symptoms. The MONARCH score indicated a probable causal relationship between the treatment and clinical improvement, suggesting that homoeopathy may offer a viable non-surgical option for OA management in the elderly. However, it s important to note that this is a single case study and the findings may not be generalizable to all elderly patients with knee OA. Although further research with larger samples is necessary, this case highlights the potential role of homeopathic treatment in improving the quality of life for elderly patients with knee OA and associated health issues.

Keywords

Homoeopathic medicine, Lacheismutus, Osteoarthritis, WOMAC index