Exploring the Immediate Benefits of Multi-Focal Low-Level Laser Therapy on Quadriceps in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Exploring the Immediate Benefits of Multi-Focal Low-Level Laser Therapy on Quadriceps in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition, especially in older individuals, causing notable pain and decreased functional abilities. Despite the positive outcomes seen with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in reducing pain and improving function in knee OA patients, its use on a broader area like the quadriceps muscle has not been extensively studied. A recent research project sought to assess the immediate impacts of multi-focal LLLT on the quadriceps muscles of individuals with knee OA, with a specific focus on pain reduction and enhancement of functional performance.

Study Overview

In this study, fifty-one participants with knee OA were enrolled to assess the immediate impact of multi-focal LLLT. The participants were evaluated before (T1) and immediately after the intervention (T2) using various measures:

• Knee joint pain using the numeric rating scale (NRS)

• Walking speed

• Timed five-chair stands

• Quadriceps strength measured by an isokinetic dynamometer

Methodology

The intervention comprised of two laser devices made of Gallium-Aluminum-Arsenide, which had multiple focal points. Each of these devices was fitted with 36 laser diodes, emitting light at a wavelength of 808 ± 10 nm. The lasers operated continuously with an average power of 50 mW. They were applied simultaneously over the bilateral quadriceps for a duration of 30 minutes, resulting in a cumulative dose of 180 J delivered to each thigh.

Significant Improvements Observed

The results demonstrated significant improvements across all measured parameters immediately after the LLLT intervention:

• Knee joint pain: There was a substantial 54% reduction in pain as measured by the NRS.

• Functional performance: Both walking speed and the timed five-chair stands showed significant enhancement (P < .05).

• Quadriceps strength: The strength of the knee extensors increased significantly in terms of peak torque and force during both concentric and eccentric contractions, as measured by the isokinetic dynamometer (P < .05).

Conclusion

The results of this investigation suggest that a solitary session of multi-focal low-level laser therapy (LLLT) administered to the quadriceps can produce immediate advantages for individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA). These advantages encompass notable alleviation of pain, enhanced functional capability, and improved strength in the quadriceps. Although additional research is needed to ascertain the long-term effects of this therapy, the immediate enhancements indicate that multi-focal LLLT on the quadriceps holds promise as a non-invasive treatment alternative for the management of knee OA.

Implications for Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment

Based on the encouraging findings of this research, multi-focal LLLT has the potential to be a viable substitute for knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients, particularly those who prefer non-invasive treatment alternatives. The rapid pain relief it offers, along with its ability to improve muscle strength and functional performance, makes it an appealing option for both patients and healthcare professionals.

The adoption of the latest developments in low-level laser therapy has the potential to open up new avenues for enhancing the effectiveness of knee OA management techniques. This can bring about a sense of optimism and an enhanced standard of living for patients.