Effects of Low Level Laser Therapy on Tendinopathies: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

BackgroundActive individuals may become afflicted by degeneration of tendon protein collagen. This phenomenon, termed tendinopathy, manifests with pain, swelling, and loss of function. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a proposed modality for the management of pain and inflammation associated with tendinopathies.PurposeThis literature review aims to look at the state of evidence among previously conducted randomized controlled trials (RCT) examining the effects of LLLT on tendinopathies in humans.Methods and Data ExtractionSystematic literature searches for randomized controlled trials between 2011‐2021 were performed in the databases of PubMed, PEDro, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Medline between July 7 to 23, 2021. A total of three randomized controlled trials (full text available, PEDro score > 6, met search criteria, and conducted in the past 10 years) with a total of 132 subjects met quality guidelines using the PEDro scale.ResultsA total of 171 articles were screened, and three studies with a total population of n=132 were included. With heterogeneity in frequency, dosage, and volume of treatment prescription, no meta‐analysis was conducted. Majority of the RCT’s did not meet PEDro quality guidelines (6 of 10 total points). Of the three studies that met criteria, there were statistically significant improvements reported in terms of pain and function in 2 of the 3 studies (n=92). On the other hand, no notable clinically significant effects were found in 1 of the studies (n=40). The results suggest that in the management of tendinopathies, the use of LLLT has some clinically significant effect on pain and functional outcomes.Conclusion and RecommendationsThis review of current randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews presented limited evidence for LLLT for tendinopathies. While the use of LLLT may improve pain and functional outcome, improving the quality of RCT’s, their methodology, and dosing and prescription guidelines are suggested.