Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Department
Physical Therapy; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Kate Hayes
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy is a relatively new form of technology used as an adjunct for the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions. Several studies have found its beneficial effects in reducing pain and improving quality of life in numerous orthopedic conditions. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of global disability and pain, with accompanying complaints of morning stiffness, limitation of motion, knee buckling, swelling and inflammation, muscle weakness, functional limitations, and bony enlargement that affects the activities of daily living, occupation, and leisure activities. The purpose of this case report is to outline the episode of care after the diagnosis of knee OA through four weeks of conservative treatment, which consisted of TECAR therapy and therapeutic exercises, within an outpatient physical therapy department in a hospital setting.
Case Description: This case report outlines the initial evaluation, diagnostic imaging, and treatment for a 66-year-old woman diagnosed with knee OA. TECAR therapy treatment was given, followed by conventional physical therapy exercises.
Outcomes: A four-week program comprising TECAR and conventional physical therapy will be implemented, and the patient will be assessed using the Numerical Pain Rating Scales (NPRS) for pain. For activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QOL), and physical performance, the patient will be assessed using the patient-rated Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS).
Discussion: Based on the results of NPRS, KOOS and LEFS, the combination of TECAR and conventional therapy resulted in improved outcomes for older adults with knee OA.
Recommended Citation
Fernandez, Mitzi Joy O., "Effects of TECAR Therapy With Conventional Physical Therapy in Patient With Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): A Case Report" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 2.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2026/pt/2
Effects of TECAR Therapy With Conventional Physical Therapy in Patient With Knee Osteoarthritis (OA): A Case Report
Background and Purpose: Transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy is a relatively new form of technology used as an adjunct for the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions. Several studies have found its beneficial effects in reducing pain and improving quality of life in numerous orthopedic conditions. Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of global disability and pain, with accompanying complaints of morning stiffness, limitation of motion, knee buckling, swelling and inflammation, muscle weakness, functional limitations, and bony enlargement that affects the activities of daily living, occupation, and leisure activities. The purpose of this case report is to outline the episode of care after the diagnosis of knee OA through four weeks of conservative treatment, which consisted of TECAR therapy and therapeutic exercises, within an outpatient physical therapy department in a hospital setting.
Case Description: This case report outlines the initial evaluation, diagnostic imaging, and treatment for a 66-year-old woman diagnosed with knee OA. TECAR therapy treatment was given, followed by conventional physical therapy exercises.
Outcomes: A four-week program comprising TECAR and conventional physical therapy will be implemented, and the patient will be assessed using the Numerical Pain Rating Scales (NPRS) for pain. For activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QOL), and physical performance, the patient will be assessed using the patient-rated Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS).
Discussion: Based on the results of NPRS, KOOS and LEFS, the combination of TECAR and conventional therapy resulted in improved outcomes for older adults with knee OA.