In Chronic Knee Osteoarthritis Low Level Laser Therapy Combined With Exercise Is More Beneficial Than Exercise Alone in the Long Term: A Randomized Trial

Abstract

Background/Purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is the most common joint disease in the elderly and is associated with significant physical disability. Low level laser therapy has been used previously as a therapeutic modality to control the pain in different musculoskeletal pathologies associated with joint disease. The aim of this investigation is to evaluate the effectiveness of low level laser therapy in combination with exercise in the long term to reduce pain, improve range of motion (ROM) and functionality in an osteoarthritis population. Methodology: 220 subjects with chronic osteoarthritis of the knee are recruited, aged-matched and divided into 2 groups. Intervention: one group receives laser therapy and exercise and the second group receives placebo laser therapy and exercise. Laser therapy was performed twice a week for 6 weeks. Measurements of pain, knee range of motion, WOMAC and Lequesne Questionnaire were taken at the baseline, after 6 weeks of intervention and another 6 weeks of no interventions. Result: The result of the study concluded that Low level laser therapy combined with exercise is more beneficial than placebo laser therapy with exercise in the long term. Hence Low level Laser therapy is used as an effective adjuvant treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis.