DOI: 10.4103/jiad.jiad_65_25 ISSN: 3051-2956

Polarity Analysis-guided Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment for Pain Management of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Case Series

Tuhina Parveen, Nipa Sardar, Mousumi Koley, Indrani Halder, Subhranil Saha

Abstract

Background:

Polarity analysis, derived from Boenninghausen’s Therapeutic Pocket Book, enhances remedy individualisation by prioritising polar symptoms. Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) pain, often debilitating and progressive, affects millions worldwide, limiting mobility and quality of life.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical outcomes of individualised homoeopathic treatment guided by polarity analysis in chronic knee OA patients and assess its routine applicability.

Methods:

A retrospective clinical case series was conducted at D. N. De Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, on 23 patients using the Visual Analogue Scale, and Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homoeopathy–Causal Attribution Inventory (MONARCH, v. 2). The outcomes were recorded in each follow-up, until the last available visit.

Results:

Participants (mean age: 48 ± 12 years; 74% female) demonstrated consistent clinical improvement across all domains. Significant reduction from baseline was observed for pain, stiffness and loss of function at each follow-up ( P < 0.01). Linear mixed-effects models demonstrated statistically significant time-associated reductions in scores (β = −13.3 to −16.6; P < 0.001). By month 3, responder rates reached 100% for pain and LOF, and 92% for stiffness. Improvements across domains were strongly interrelated, whereas MONARCH scores showed no meaningful association with the extent of clinical change. Subgroup analyses by age and sex showed consistent positive trends with no significant differences.

Conclusion:

Individualised homoeopathy by polarity analysis yielded temporal reductions in knee OA pain, stiffness, and functional limitation over 3 months. Uncontrolled design precludes causality; prospective controlled trials are needed.

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