ObjectiveTo investigate the therapeutic effects of Xiongfu Tongbi decoction combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation on knee osteoarthritis(KOA) and serum levels of inflammatory factors.

MethodsOne hundred and twelve patients with bilateral KOA were randomly divided into the observation group and control group(56 cases each group).The control group was treated with glucosamine sulfate by oral, and the observation group was treated with Xiongfu Tongbi decoction combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation.The degree of joint function and pain were evaluated using Lysholm score and VAS score before treatment and after 8 weeks of treatment.The serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-3, tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α and interleukin-17 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA), and the therapeutic effects were observed.

ResultsThe therapeutic response rate in observation group(91.1%) was significantly higher than that in control group(75.0%) (P < 0.05).Before treatment, the differences of Lysholm score and VAS score, and serum levels of MMP-3, TNF-α and IL-17 were not statistically significant between two groups(P>0.05).After treatment, the Lysholm score and VAS score in two groups increased and decreased, respectively(P < 0.01).After treatment, the Lysholm score and VAS score in observation group were higher and lower than that in control group, respectively(P < 0.01).After treatment, the serum levels of MMP-3, TNF-α and IL-17 in two groups decreased(P < 0.05 to P < 0.01), and the serum levels of MMP3, TNF-α and IL-17 in observation group were lower than those in control group(P < 0.05 to P < 0.01).

ConclusionsThe effects of Xiongfu Tongbi decoction combined with traditional Chinese medicine fumigation on KOA is significant, and which can significantly improve the joint function, pain level and serum levels of inflammatory factors.