Ice and diathermy
For theoretical reasons, ice may be expected to help reduce the local inflammatory component with OA flares. Similarly many patients are benefited from therapeutic heat. A Cochrane review showed that ice massage compared to control had a statistically beneficial effect on ROM, function and knee strength. Cold packs decreased swelling.Hot packs had no beneficial effect on oedema compared with placebo or cold application. Ice packs did not affect pain significantly, compared to control, in patients with OA37.