Objective: This study aimed to unveil the effect of glucosamine hydrochloride (GAH) and eperisone combined with exercise therapy on inflammatory markers and knee joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).
Methods: Sixty KOA patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Group A (n = 30) received GAH plus exercise therapy, while Group B (n = 30) received GAH combined with eperisone and exercise therapy. Serum inflammatory factors, knee symptom scores (pain, stiffness, daily function), and functional measures [knee flexion range of motion (ROM), Lysholm score, five-time sit-to-stand test, and 15-meter walking time] were assessed before and after treatment. Clinical efficacy was also evaluated.
Results: Post-treatment, both groups showed decreased serum MMP-3, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels, with significantly greater reductions in Group B (p < 0.001). Group B had lower symptom scores (p < 0.05), greater ROM and Lysholm improvements (p < 0.001), and better functional performance (p < 0.001). The effective rate was higher in Group B (100.00%) than in Group A (86.67%) (p = 0.038).
Conclusion: GAH combined with eperisone and exercise therapy is more effective than GAH alone in patients with KOA. It significantly reduces inflammatory markers and symptoms, and enhances knee joint function.
Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis; eperisone; exercise therapy; glucosamine hydrochloride; inflammatory factors; knee joint function.