Ultrasound Neuromodulation (Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) to Treat Knee Osteoarthritis Pain: A Randomized, Observer- and Participant-Masked, Sham-Controlled, Human-Subjects Pilot Study.

Low-intensity focused ultrasound is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that delivers mechanical forces to a deep location within the body through acoustic pressure waves without affecting tissue between the transducer and focal target. Preliminary studies involving healthy volunteers suggest focused ultrasound reversibly prevents action potential formation similar to a local anesthetic nerve block, but the modality has not been used in patients with existing pain. The current randomized pilot study was undertaken to 1) determine the feasibility and optimize the protocol for a subsequent definitive clinical trial; and 2) monitor for related complications of focused ultrasound when treating knee osteoarthritis pain.