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Low level laser therapy with trigger points technique: a clinical study on 243 patients
1Laser Center, Locarno, Switzerland.
Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) applied to trigger points effectively reduces pain and improves function in over 200 patients. This non-invasive treatment enhances microcirculation and oxygen supply, offering a safe alternative or supplement to traditional pain management.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
Background:
- Myofascial trigger points (TPs) are focal areas of pain sensitivity linked to ischemic conditions.
- Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) offers various application techniques, including targeting TPs.
- Existing therapeutic methods for pain management have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of LLLT applied to trigger points for pain relief and functional recovery.
- To assess LLLT's impact on local microcirculation and cellular oxygenation in TP areas.
- To determine the optimal energy dosage for effective LLLT treatment.
Main Methods:
- LLLT was applied to trigger points in over 200 patients with various pain conditions.
- Treatment involved specific laser wavelengths (HeNe 632.8 nm, 820-830 nm, 904 nm).
- Pain and functional improvements were measured using clinical parameters and scales (VAS/VRS/PTM).
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in pain were observed: over 70% for acute pain and over 60% for chronic pain.
- Improvements included decreased rigidity, restored mobility, and pain disappearance.
- LLLT enhanced local microcirculation, improved oxygen supply to hypoxic cells, and removed waste products.
Conclusions:
- LLLT applied to trigger points is a highly effective therapy for diverse pain conditions.
- The therapy normalizes microcirculation, interrupting the pain cycle.
- LLLT is a safe monotherapy or supplementary treatment with no observed adverse effects, potentially reducing analgesic drug use.