The results of meta- analysis showed statistically significant differences between aloe vera and control groups in alleviating pain/burning sensation at the end of the first and second month , in favor of aloe vera , but no significant differences were found at the end of the third month .
With regard to objective clinical outcomes , no statistically significant differences were found between the groups .
Aloe vera has a promising effect in reducing pain/burning sensation and clinical improvement in patients with OSF .
The management of oral submucous fibrosis ( OSF ) is quite challenging , and as yet , no effective therapy is available for its management .
The present systematic review and meta- analysis sought to assess the effectiveness of aloe vera in alleviating pain and clinical signs of OSF .
Effectiveness of Aloe Vera and Antioxidant along with Physiotherapy in the Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis.
BACKGROUND Oral submucous fibrosis ( OSMF ) is a well-established precancerous condition affecting the oral mucosa . It is a disease that causes significant morbidity ( in terms of loss of mouth function as tissues become rigid and mouth opening becomes difficult ) and mortality ( when transformation into squamous cell carcinoma occurs ) . AIM The aim of the study is to compare the efficacy of Aloe vera with antioxidant when given along with physiotherapy in the management of OSMF . MATERIAL S AND METHODS Forty patients presenting with clinical signs and symptoms of OSMF were included for the study after informed consent . Group A included 20 patients who received Aloe vera gel ( forever living gel ) along with physiotherapy . Group B included 20 patients who received antioxidant capsules twice daily for 3 months along with physiotherapy exercises four times in a day . The following parameters , that is , burning sensation , mouth opening , tongue protrusion and cheek flexibility were recorded at each visit . RESULTS Majority of the participant enrolled were in the age range of 30 to 35 years . Improvement in all the parameters was seen with the individuals receiving Aloe vera gel in comparison to antioxidants . CONCLUSION So , Aloe vera being a soothing , simple and safe mode of treatment along with proper habit restriction can be considered to be an effectual protocol in the management of OSMF . The analgesic effects of Aloe vera with the physiotherapy exercises provide better results in reducing burning sensation and improving mouth opening , tongue protrusion and cheek flexibility in comparison to antioxidants
The results of meta- analysis showed statistically significant differences between aloe vera and control groups in alleviating pain/burning sensation at the end of the first and second month , in favor of aloe vera , but no significant differences were found at the end of the third month .
With regard to objective clinical outcomes , no statistically significant differences were found between the groups .
Aloe vera has a promising effect in reducing pain/burning sensation and clinical improvement in patients with OSF .
The management of oral submucous fibrosis ( OSF ) is quite challenging , and as yet , no effective therapy is available for its management .
The present systematic review and meta- analysis sought to assess the effectiveness of aloe vera in alleviating pain and clinical signs of OSF .