Have you been skeptical about laser therapy because you are not convinced by the scientific studies you have seen? Here are two controlled, double-blind studies that will make you rethink your view of laser therapy:
The Effectiveness of Therapeutic Class IV (10 W) Laser Treatment for Epicondylitis
In this study, fifteen patients with documented chronic tendinosis of the elbow were randomized into sham or laser therapy treatment. The laser group received eight 5.5 minute treatments of 10 J/cm2 every-other day for 18 days. Follow-up evaluations were made at 3, 6 and 12 months. Multiple pain measures, handgrip strength and functional impairment all improved with respect to sham treatment. Statistical significance was maintained to 1 year follow-up.
Publication Details: Lasers In Surgery And Medicine, Volume 45, Issue 5, 2013, pp. 311-317, © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Authors: Delia B. Roberts, PhD, FACSM, Roger J. Kruse, MD, FACSM, and Stephen F. Stoll, MD
Click here to download the abstract.
Effects of Class IV Laser Therapy on Fibromyalgia Impact and Function in Women with Fibromyalgia
Thirty-nine women w
ith fibromyalgia syndrome were randomized to receive laser therapy treatment or sham heat gun treatment. Treatments were administered twice a week for 4 weeks at eight tender points across the neck, shoulders and back. Laser therapy treatment significantly improved upper body flexibility, fibromyalgia impact score and a composite measure of pain compared to the sham treatment.
Publication Details: The Journal Of Alternative And Complementary Medicine, Volume 19, Number 5, 2013, pp. 445–452, © Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
Authors: Lynn Panton, PhD, FACSM, Emily Simonavice, PhD, Kristen Williams, MS, Christopher Mojock, MS, Jeong-Su Kim, PhD, J. Derek Kingsley, PhD, Victor McMillan, MD, and Reed Mathis, DC
Click here to download the abstract.
Wendy Pollock
Laser therapy has changed my life! For the Better. Love laser therapy and the excellent quality of life it has given me for the last 10 + years!