Should hydrogen therapy be included in a musculoskeletal medicine routine? [version 1; referees: 2 approved]

Abstract

Molecular hydrogen (H ) has recently been recognized as a potential novel therapeutic agent in biomedicine. Initially proposed to be a possible treatment for certain types of neuromuscular disorders, cardio-metabolic diseases and cancer, H improved clinical end-points and surrogate markers in several clinical trials, mainly acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and powerful antioxidant. In this paper, the medicinal properties of H in musculoskeletal medicine are discussed with the aim to provide an updated and practical overview for health professionals working in this field.

Study details

Article type

Opinion / Commentary

Disease / injury model

Musculoskeletal disorders (general, including soft tissue injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, myopathies)

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Neutral

Findings

The article concludes that while preliminary studies suggest potential benefits of hydrogen therapy in musculoskeletal medicine, there is currently insufficient evidence to recommend its routine use. Hydrogen should be regarded as an experimental agent and not recommended for general use in treating muscle or bone conditions.