INTRODUCTION: Knee osteoarthritis (KO) is the most common joint disease for which there is no optimal treatment. Monochromatic infrared photo energy (MIPE) is a relatively new light modality used to reduce pain and increase circulation. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is another light modality used to reduce pain in KO. METHODS: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of the MIPE and LLLT in improving pain and function in KO. Sixty participants with KO completed the program and were randomly assigned into two groups. Group 1 (experimental, n = 30) received MIPE and exercises. Group 2 (control, n = 30) received LLLT and exercises. Both groups received two visits per week for six weeks. Outcome included pain intensity measured on a visual analogue scale and physical function measured with the lower extremity functional scale, before and after the 12 therapy sessions (6 weeks after the start of the intervention). RESULTS: There were statistically significant improvements in pain intensity and lower extremity functional scale scores (p < 0.05) in each group. However, no significant differences were recorded between the groups (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Therefore, MIPE and LLLT reduce pain and improve function in KO; however, there are no differences between the two modalities in reducing pain and increasing physical function in KO.

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