Effect Of Low-level Laser Therapy Research Articles

A clinical evaluation of low-level laser therapy for pain reduction in early treatment stages: A pilot study

Objectives: This study aimed to clinically evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in reducing pain associated with orthodontic movement during the early stages of treatment. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 20 participants undergoing non-extraction orthodontic treatment. The laser group (LG, n = 10) received LLLT (808 nm, 100 mW) immediately after appliance installation, while the control group (CG, n = 10) received no pain control intervention. Pain levels were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) at 6, 24, 48, and 72 h till 7 days with an interval of 24 h. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and Mann–Whitney tests. Results: The LG consistently demonstrated significantly lower pain scores during chewing and at rest compared to the CG. After 6 h post-treatment, the median pain score on chewing in the LG was markedly lower than the CG (P < 0.001), a trend observed at each subsequent interval till 7 days. The comparison of spontaneous pain also favored the LG at various time points. Lower median VAS scores for pain on chewing among the LG and CG were zero and two, respectively, with a significant difference. The maximum median VAS scores for pain on chewing among the LG and CG were five and seven, respectively, with a significant difference. Conclusion: This study provides robust evidence supporting the effectiveness of LLLT in reducing orthodontic pain during the early stages of treatment. The sustained and significant reduction in pain scores, coupled with rigorous statistical analyses, emphasizes the potential of LLLT as a valuable adjunctive therapy in orthodontic practice.

Comparison of Tecar Therapy and Low-Level Laser Therapy Separately and Simultaneously on Clinical Symptoms and Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A 3-Month Follow-up Study

Background: Distal peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent issue among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite the widespread use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and limited use of Tecar therapy in physiotherapy for diabetics, the synergistic effect of these two interventions in a long-term follow-up has not yet been determined. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the effects of Tecar therapy and LLLT separately and simultaneously over a 3-month follow-up period on clinical symptoms and health-related quality of life in individuals with type 2 diabetes and DPN. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized clinical trial, forty-five individuals with type 2 diabetes (30 women and 15 men) with DPN were randomly assigned to three groups of 15 people: Tecar-on + laser-sham, Tecar-on + laser-on, and laser-on + Tecar-sham. The patients received ten treatment sessions and were followed up for 3-months after the last session. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF Questionnaire, while clinical symptoms, including pain (measured with a Visual Analog Scale), functional balance (evaluated with the timed-up and go test), and neuropathy symptoms (assessed with the Michigan Questionnaire) were also recorded. Results: Inter-group comparison after ten sessions revealed that the Tecar-on + laser-sham and Tecar-on + laser-on groups exhibited significant improvement in neuropathy symptoms compared to the laser-on + Tecar-sham group. Even after the 3-month follow-up, these two groups showed lasting improvement in all variables compared to the laser-on + Tecar-sham group (P < 0.05). The Tecar-on + laser-on group demonstrated a more enduring significant effect on pain scores (P = 0.035) compared to the Tecar-on + laser-sham group after the 3-month follow-up. In intra-group comparison, all three groups showed significant improvement in clinical symptoms and health-related quality of life after ten treatment sessions compared to before treatment (P < 0.05). Moreover, after the 3-month follow-up, both the Tecar-on + laser-sham group and the Tecar-on + laser-on group demonstrated a more lasting significant effect in all variables compared to before treatment (P < 0.05). For the laser-on + Tecar-sham group, a more durable improvement in health-related quality of life (P = 0.000) and neuropathy symptoms (P = 0.011) was reported after the 3-month follow-up compared to before treatment. Conclusions: Although all three groups exhibited significant improvement in clinical symptoms and health-related quality of life in individuals with type 2 diabetes and DPN after ten treatment sessions, the synergistic use of Tecar therapy and LLLT after a long-term follow-up period could lead to more durable therapeutic effects in improving these outcomes for individuals with diabetes.

Comparative effectiveness of low-level laser therapy versus muscle energy technique among diabetic patients with frozen shoulder: a study protocol for a parallel group randomised controlled trial

BackgroundDiabetes mellitus is one of the fastest-growing health challenges of the twenty-first century with multifactorial impact including high rates of morbidity and mortality as well as increased healthcare costs. It is associated with musculoskeletal complications, with frozen shoulder being commonly reported. While low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and muscle energy technique (MET) are commonly used to manage  this condition, there remains a lack of agreement on the most effective approach, with limited research available on their comparative efficacy.ObjectivesTo evaluate the comparative effectiveness of LLLT versus MET among diabetic patients with frozen shoulder.MethodsThis is a single-centre, prospective, single-blind, randomised controlled trial with three parallel groups to be conducted at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Sixty diabetic patients with frozen shoulder will be randomly assigned into LLLT group, MET group, or control group in a 1:1:1 ratio. All the groups will receive treatment three times weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcome will be shoulder function and the secondary outcomes will include pain intensity, shoulder ROM, interleukin-6 (IL-6), depression, anxiety, and quality of life (QoL). All outcomes will be assessed at baseline, at post 8-week intervention, and at 3 months follow-up.DiscussionThis will be the first randomised controlled trial to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of LLLT versus MET on both clinical and psychological parameters among diabetic patients with frozen shoulder. The findings of the study may provide evidence on the efficacy of these interventions and most likely, the optimal treatment approach for frozen shoulder related to diabetes, which may guide clinical practice.Trial Registration: Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR202208562111554). Registered on August 10, 2022.

Low-level laser therapy and laser acupuncture therapy for pain relief after initial archwire placement : Arandomized clinical trial.

Pain is among the most unpleasant experience during fixed orthodontic therapy. This study compared the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and laser acupuncture therapy (LAT) in pain reduction after initial archwire placement. This randomized, parallel-group, single-blind clinical trial included 60female patients who required four premolar extractions to relieve crowding. The subjects were randomly designated into four groups of 15. After placement of the initial orthodontic archwire, patients in group1 took ibuprofen (400 mg), whereas those in group2 received LLLT (808 nm, 200 mW, 2 J/cm2) on both buccal and lingual sides of the teeth. In group3 (LAT), the laser (808 nm, 200 mW, 24 J/cm2) was applied bilaterally to acupuncture points (SI18, ST6, LI4, SJ2, and SJ5). Subjects in group4 received placebo laser treatment. Patients were requested to record the intensity of spontaneous pain, pain while biting with anterior teeth, and pain while biting with posterior teeth at different times using avisual analogue scale (VAS). The intensity of spontaneous and biting pain increased up to the first or second days following initial archwire placement and diminished to anegligible value by the seventh day. No significant difference was found between the study groups concerning spontaneous and biting pain at any timepoint of investigation (P > 0.05). With the protocols used in the study, low-level laser therapy and laser acupuncture therapy were as effective as ibuprofen and placebo laser treatment for pain reduction in orthodontic patients. IRCT, IRCT20200622047886N1. Registered 2020-06-29; https://www.irct.ir/trial/49121.

The effect of low-level laser therapy on the oxidative stress level and quality of life in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

This study aimed to examine the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) combined with levothyroxine replacement therapy on thyroid function, oxidative stress (OS), and quality of life in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT). Forty-six patients diagnosed with HT were randomized to receive active LLLT (n = 23) and sham LLLT (n = 23) twice a week for three weeks. Clinical and laboratory evaluations of the participants were performed before treatment and three months after treatment. Biochemical parameters were taken from the patient file requested by the physician as a routine examination. Malondialdehyde and nitricoxide indicating oxidant stress and superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione, which indicate antioxidant capacity, were used in OS evaluation. The Oxidative Stress Index was calculated by measuring the Total Antioxidant Status and the Total Oxidant Status. At the end of our study, a significant improvement in oxidant and antioxidant biomarker levels showing OS and quality of life was observed in the treatment groups (p < 0.05). There was no change in thyroid function and autoimmunity at the end of the treatment between the two groups (p > 0.05). Improvements in glutathione levels and quality of life were significantly higher in the active treatment group than in the sham-controlled group. LLLT was found to be more effective on OS and quality of life in patients with HT than in patients in the sham-controlled group. It was concluded that LLLT is a safe and effective method that can be used in the treatment of patients with HT.

Low-Level Laser Therapy for Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background and aim Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is considered a promising non-invasive treatment option for osteoarthritis (OA). The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LLLT on patients with OA of the first carpometacarpal joint (CMC1) of the thumb. Methods An open-level, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, for one year. Initially, 120 patients were approached for the study. Among them, 112 eligible patients were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group received LLLT in addition to conservative treatment, while the control group received conservative treatment alone for four weeks. Pain and functional capability (motor) improvement were assessed on a weekly follow-up basis by using various parameters such as the visual analogue scale (VAS), Ritchie articular index (tenderness scale), grip strength, key pinch strength, Dreiser functional index, and CMC1 palmer abduction. Eventually, 90 patients completed the follow-ups and were included in the analysis. Results The majority of patients diagnosed with CMC1 joint OA were in their fifties. At baseline, patients of both intervention and control groups were indifferent in terms of demography, pain intensity, motor responses, and duration of suffering. After four weeks of treatment, results indicated an overall improvement in both groups. However, the reduction of pain and increase in functional capability were not found statistically significant (p-value: ≥0.5). Conclusion LLLT with conventional treatment was not found significantly more effective enough than conventional treatment alone, but more well-designed clinical trials with larger sample sizes are needed to reach a definitive conclusion.

Effect of low-level laser therapy during non-surgical periodontal treatments on pocket depth and HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients

Introduction: Periodontal diseases are generally divided into two groups: Gingivitis and periodontitis. Diabetes Mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases that are characterized by increased blood sugar levels (due to defects in insulin production or insulin resistance or both). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low-power laser in non-surgical periodontal treatments on pocket depth and HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: Relevant articles were reviewed through searching Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus in the 10-years from 2015 to 2021. Cochrane collaboration tool was used to evaluate the quality of articles. Results: From 160 studies, 120 articles were selected after removing duplicate articles and finally 6 studies were reviewed. The test group, which was under diode laser radiation, showed a greater decrease in pocket depth during the three and six-month follow-up. Diode laser irradiation with SRP during 3 and 6 months led to more changes in HbA1C levels. Conclusion: Low level lasers can be used well in non-surgical periodontal treatment in type 2 diabetic patients.

Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of High Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) And Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) On Improving Balance In Knee Osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND : Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a joint disease with a high prevalence among the elderly. OA can cause balance disorders, which are one of the main causes of falls in the elderly. Balance can be measured using several scoring systems, one of which is the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). One of the treatment modalities for OA is laser therapy which is non-invasive and easy to apply. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been widely used in patients with knee OA, but recently high intensity laser therapy (HILT) has begun to be used in physical therapy with advantages over a wider range and depth. AIMS :  to compare the effect of LLLT and HILT therapy on improving functional balance in the elderly with knee OA. METHOD : This research is a randomized controlled trial pre-test and post-test-controlled group design. The sampling method used in this study is the simple random sampling method. The sample size was 27 subjects and divided into two groups, the LLLT group (n=14) and the HILT group (n=13). Each subject received laser therapy sessions 2 times a week for 4 weeks. Balance was assessed using the BBS before and after the intervention. RESULT :  There was an increase in BBS scores before and after treatment in the HILT group (p&lt;0.001) and in the LLLT group (p&lt;0.001), with the increase in the HILT group (7.79 ± 2.16) significantly greater than in the LLLT group (3 .08 ± 0.76) (p&lt;0.001). CONCLUSION : HILT improves balance score better than LLLT.

Combined Effects of Brunnstorm Movement Therapy and Low-Level Laser Therapy on Upper Limb Function and Hand Dexterity in Chronic Stroke Patient

Background: Stroke remains a leading cause of disability worldwide, necessitating innovative rehabilitation strategies to enhance recovery and improve quality of life. The integration of Brunnstrom movement therapy and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) presents a novel approach to addressing the complexities of stroke rehabilitation, focusing on improving upper limb function and hand dexterity. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of Brunnstrom movement therapy and LLLT on upper limb function and hand dexterity in chronic stroke patients, providing insights into potentially enhancing rehabilitation outcomes. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 48 chronic stroke patients, divided equally into two groups to receive either Brunnstrom movement therapy or LLLT. The study spanned six months, with assessments including the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Nine-Hole Peg Test, Box and Block Test, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and Handheld Dynamometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests to compare outcomes between groups. Results: Significant improvements were noted in both groups, with the LLLT group showing superior performance in the Nine-Hole Peg Test (p&lt;0.001), Box and Block Test (p&lt;0.001), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment (p&lt;0.001) compared to baseline. The MAS scores indicated a significant reduction in muscle spasticity over time in both groups, with the LLLT group exhibiting a more substantial decrease (p=0.003 at week 6). Conclusion: The study demonstrated that combining Brunnstrom movement therapy with LLLT could significantly enhance upper limb function and hand dexterity in chronic stroke patients. These findings advocate for the integration of innovative and non-invasive therapies into rehabilitation programs, potentially setting a new benchmark in stroke recovery practices.

Effect of low level laser therapy versus pulsed ultrasound on postpartum carpal tunnel syndrome

Background. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a major health issue that can impede postpartum women's activities and skills in both their personal and professional lives. Purpose. To compare the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and pulsed ultrasound (US) in relieving postpartum CTS. Methods. Forty-eight women with mild to moderate CTS were divided into three groups. In addition to wrist exercises, Group (A) (n = 16) received LLLT, Group (B) (n = 16) received pulsed US, and Group (C) (n = 16) performed wrist exercises alone. For all groups, the treatment sessions were applied to the affected hand, 3 sessions weekly for four weeks. All postpartum women were evaluated pre- and post-treatment via a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain intensity, the Boston Questionnaire of CTS (BCTS) for diagnosing CTS symptoms, electromyography for measuring motor conduction velocity (MCV), sensory conduction velocity (SCV), motor distal latency (MDL), and sensory peak latency (SPL), and a hand grip dynamometer for assessing hand grip strength. Results. All measured variables were significantly improved in the three groups post-treatment compared to pre-treatment. Between-groups comparison showed a highly significant decrease in the VAS, BCTS, and SPL and a significant increase of SCV and hand grip strength between groups A and C in favor of group A and between groups B and C in favor of group B, while the significant change in MDL and MCV was found between groups A and C only in favor of group A (p &lt; 0.05), with no significant change in all outcome measures between groups A and B (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion. Either LLLT or pulsed US are useful modalities that can be used as an effective conservative therapy for alleviating postpartum CTS.

Effect of low-level laser therapy in wound healing of primary molar teeth extraction

IntroductionTooth extraction in children requires attention to wound healing and pain management, which are influenced by patient-related factors and behavioral guidance. Aim of the study: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of LLLT on healing sockets in pediatric patients with bilateral primary molar teeth extraction and determine its impact on pain management.Methods6–10 years of age, systemically healthy, and with atraumatic extraction indications of bilateral primary molar teeth were included in the study (n = 40). In the first session, randomly selected teeth were extracted under local anesthesia. In the control group, only clot formation in the socket was observed and photographed. The other group extractions were performed 2 weeks later. The low-level laser therapy (LLLT) group was treated with a 980 nm wavelength, in a continuous emission mode, 0.5 W power, 300 J of energy, 400 µm tip, 60 s diode laser and photographed. Nonepithelialized surface measurements were performed using ImageJ. Pain assessment was performed using the Wong-Baker Pain Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software.ResultsThere was a statistically significant difference between the groups in the Wong-Baker values in 3rd day (p < 0.05). In soft tissue healing on the 3rd and 7th day, the nonepithelialized surface of the laser socket was smaller than that of the control group, and the measurement results were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05).ConclusionAlthough LLLT was not found to be very effective in reducing postoperative discomfort after extraction of primary molars, it provided better wound healing in extraction sockets.

Osteoblastic differentiation and changes in the redox state in pulp stem cells by laser treatment

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on cell proliferation, mitochondrial membrane potential changes (∆Ψm), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and osteoblast differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs). These cells were irradiated with 660- and 940-nm lasers for 5 s, 50 s, and 180 s. Cell proliferation was assessed using the resazurin assay, cell differentiation by RUNX2 and BMP2 expression, and the presence of calcification nodules using alizarin-red S staining. ROS was determined by the dichlorofluorescein-diacetate technique and changes in ∆Ψm by the tetramethylrhodamine-ester assay. Data were analyzed by a Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U test. The 940-nm wavelength for 5 and 50 s increased proliferation at 4 days postirradiation. After 8 days, a significant decrease in proliferation was observed in all groups. Calcification nodules were evident in all groups, with a greater staining intensity in cells treated with a 940-nm laser for 50 s, an effect that correlated with increased RUNX2 and BMP2 expression. ROS production and Δψm increased independently of irradiation time. In conclusion, photobiomodulation (PBM) with LLLT induced morphological changes and reduced cell proliferation rate, which was associated with osteoblastic differentiation and increased ROS and Δψm, independent of wavelength and time.

Effect of Low Level Laser Therapy Vs Ultrasound Therapy in The Management of Temporomandibular Joint Pain Syndrome

The temporomandibular joint is a synovial joint made up of articulating surface of the temporal bone and the head of the mandible.Patients suffering from temporomandibular joint pain syndrome will frequently have pain in the region, limitation in opening, asymmetrical jawmovements, and restricted jaw movements. The etiology is associated with several factors, including malocclusion, trauma, emotional stress,and para-functional habits, which cause excruciating pain and inflammation of the surrounding muscle, posterior fibers, and synovial fluid. Thisstudy evaluated and compared the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and ultrasound therapy (UST) in managing temporomandibularjoint pain syndrome. This experimental study of pre and post-comparative types involves 30 subjects with temporomandibular joint painsyndrome who were selected from the outpatient department. This study included 30 subjects divided into two groups of each 15 by simplerandom sampling method.15 sessions each alternate day of low-level laser therapy (GROUP A) and ultrasound therapy (GROUP B) wereadministered to the affected side. Both groups received stretching exercises as a common intervention. Group A received low-level lasertherapy along with stretching exercises for 7 sessions /week/10 min. Group B received ultrasound therapy and stretching exercises for 7sessions /one weeks/10 min. On comparing the mean values of Group A &amp; Group B on the Visual Analogue Scale Score in terms of painintensity, it shows a significant decrease in the post-test mean values in both groups, but (Group A - Low-level Laser Therapy) shows 2.33,which has the lower mean value is more effective than (Group B - Ultrasound Therapy) 3.53 at P ≤ 0.001. Hence the null Hypothesis isrejected. On comparing the pre-test and Post-test between Group A &amp; Group B on VAS Score, Group A shows a highly significant difference inmean values at P ≤ 0. 001. Thus, we conclude that low-level laser therapy is more effective than ultrasound therapy in the management oftemporomandibular joint pain syndrome.

Adjunctive Effect of Photobiomodulation Therapy with Nd:YAG Laser in the Treatment of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Paresthesia.

Background: Disruption of peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve in the field of maxillofacial surgery is a known risk due to the close connection of these branches with the bony structures of the maxilla and mandible. As a result, injuries of the lingual nerve and inferior alveolar nerve take place within routine maxillofacial surgery procedures, including local anesthetic injection, wisdom tooth surgery, and dental implant placement, resulting in paresthesia and dysesthesia. During the last three decades, low-level lasers (LLL) have been frequently used in various medical fields. Lately, this application has increased in several sectors. Methods and materials: This experiment was designed to explore the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with Nd:YAG on the paresthesia and dysesthesia of the lower lip. This ethics committee of Tbzmed, Tabriz, Iran, proved the present experiment with ethical code: IR.TBZMED.REC.1401.839. Results: After completing 10 sessions of laser therapy for the case group consisting of 25 patients with lower lip anesthesia, the visual analog scale index results revealed that following six sessions of laser therapy, a significant difference appeared in contrast to the control group. Also, according to the two-point tests, significant difference among the experimental and the control group appeared after ninth session of the laser therapy. Conclusions: Altogether, these data suggested LLLT with Nd:YAG as an effective treatment option for decreasing the anesthesia of the lower lip.

EFFECT OF LOW LEVEL LASER OF 650NM ON VIALBILITY OF PREVOTELLA INTERMEDIAWITH AND WITHOUT PHOTOSENSITISERS: AN IN VITRO STUDY

Background: Prevotella intermedia is commonly associated with various forms of periodontal disease. Conventional treatment involves a combination of mechanical therapy and systemic antibiotics administration, which comes with its own set of challenges and disadvantages. An alternative treatment modality is low-level laser therapy with and without photosensitizers. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy with and without the use of photosensitizers, specifically Methylene blue and Toluidine blue, on the viability of Prevotella intermedia. Methods: The study utilized in vitro experiments to assess the impact of low-level laser therapy alone and in combination with photosensitizers on the viability of Prevotella intermedia. Results: The findings indicate that Methylene blue, when combined with low-level laser therapy, exhibits bactericidal effects similar to or greater than low-level laser therapy alone on Prevotella intermedia. Additionally, the use of Toluidine blue as a photosensitizer in combination with low-level laser therapy also led to a reduction in the viability of Prevotella intermedia, although it was not as effective as Methylene blue. Conclusion: Low-level laser therapy, particularly when combined with Methylene blue as a photosensitizer, shows promise as a potential treatment modality for controlling Prevotella intermedia in periodontal diseases.

A brief literature review of low-level laser therapy for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and confirmation of its effectiveness.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease with a steadily progressive course due to the death of central and peripheral motor neurons responsible for voluntary movements. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a treatment method unique in its universality and efficacy, particularly for neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the effect and application of LLLT in the treatment of ALS. A literature search for English and Russian publications for the keywords "Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis", "Low-Level Laser Therapy" was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI) databases. The article provided a brief literature review, substantiated the potential use of low-level laser therapy for ALS. The particular techniques of LLLT were developed. Based on the results of several studies and many years of successful experience with low-level laser therapy in Russia we conclude that a LLLT technique, including intravenous laser blood illumination (ILBI), noninvasive laser blood illumination (NLBI), and local exposure, is a promising treatment method for ALS.

Correction to: Evaluate and compare the effectiveness of low-level laser (diode) therapy and occlusal splints in TMJ pain-pilot study

Correction to: Evaluate and compare the effectiveness of low-level laser (diode) therapy and occlusal splints in TMJ pain-pilot study

Therapeutic Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Pain and Disability of Patients with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.

This study intended to evaluate the effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). FBSS refers to symptoms and disabilities which remain or occur after lumbar spinal surgery. Prevalent treatments for FBSS are based mostly on conservative management while LLLT has gained significant interest in the treatment of a wide variety of musculoskeletal disorders. In the present study, the authors included 50 individuals with FBSS. Target points were determined by an ultrasonic study including bilateral L2-L3 through L5-S1 facet joints, sacroiliac joints, and the region immediately above bilateral supra crestal iliac bones representing cluneal nerves. LLLT was performed three times a week for 3 weeks. A near-infrared laser (wavelength 808 nm, power 500 mw) was used in continuous mode for laser therapy sessions. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were registered before treatment and after last treatment session, 1 month and 6 months later, respectively. NRS and ODI were significantly improved after treatment, as well as therapeutic effects, after 1 month and 6 months were also evident and comparison of the NRS and ODI showed significant difference. LLLT has a positive impact on pain and disability in patients with FBSS.

The effectiveness of low-level laser therapy and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound in reducing pain induced by orthodontic separation: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) have been recently applied to control pain during orthodontic treatment.ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare the effectiveness of LLLT and LIPUS in reducing pain induced by orthodontic separation.Study designA single-blinded randomized controlled trial.MethodsOne hundred and fifty patients were randomly assigned into three groups; LLLT group, LIPUS group, and control group. After 5 min from the separators’ placement, the first dose of the laser or the ultrasound was applied, the second dose was applied after 24 h, and the third dose was applied after 48 h on both maxillary and mandibular first molars. The exposure of laser was for 20 s at each point (maxillary and mandibular first molars), with an 810-nm aluminum-gallium-arsenide (AlGaAs) diode laser on continuous mode. The output power set at 150 mW, the energy density of 4 J/cm2, and a laser spot diameter of 7 mm were applied. Whereas the frequency of ultrasonic toothbrush was 1.6 MHz; and average output intensity was 0.2 W/cm2. The application was for 20 min (5 min on each first molar). The control group received the separators without another intervention. A Visual Analog Scale (VAS 100 mm) was used to assess pain intensity at several time intervals during the first four days after the separators’ placement.ResultsA total of 145 patients were assessed. There was a significant difference in pain perception among the three groups after 5 min (P = .002). The maximum pain level was reached after 24 h. However, the laser group and the ultrasound group showed a statistically significant decrease in pain scores compared to the control group at all the assessment time points (P < .001). Whereas there was no difference between the laser group and the ultrasound group in reducing the pain scores (P > .05).ConclusionsThe LLLT and the LIPUS effectively reduce the separation pain when applied in multiple doses without differences between them.Trial registrationThis trial was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS). (https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID= DRKS00029991). Date of registration: 26/08/2022.

IL-37 evaluation in chronic periodontitis after periodontal treatment with and without low level laser therapy.

Periodontal disease poses a significant global health challenge. Traditional treatments focus on reducing inflammation and bacterial load, yet novel approaches are continually being investigated. Recent research suggests that IL-37, a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine, may play a crucial role in modulating the inflammatory processes associated with periodontal disease. In conjunction with IL-37, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has gained attention for its potential in promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cellular processes. This study aims to investigate the effects of LLLT on IL-37 in periodontal disease management. Thirty patients were enrolled: the G1 group patients were treated with only scaling and root planning-SRP, the G2 group was treated with SRP and LLLT. Before treatment (T0) all periodontal probing pocket depth and bleeding on probing were obtained. Before (T0) and 10 (T1), 30 (T2) and 60 (T3) days after treatment, was achieved plaque sample and specimens of gingival crevicular fluid. Diode laser wavelength range was used between 600-1000 nm and 0.04-60 J/cm2 energy density for 3-s spotlights. In all patients PPD, BOP and IL-37 have shown healing improved parameters. Although LLLT is widely recommended for its biostimulatory and anti-inflammatory roles, it only showed additional short-term merits in reducing the pocket depth after conventional SRP. Its long-term adjunctive benefits remain unclear. Future RCTs with better study designs, adequate sample power and longer durations of follow-up are required to assess the effectiveness of LLLT as an adjunctive treatment strategy in patients with periodontal disease.