Efficacy of 635nm Red Low-Level Laser on Nociceptive Musculoskeletal Pain Compared to NSAIDS, Opioids, and Other Light Sources

Abstract

Background: According to the World Health Organization, musculoskeletal conditions comprise more than 150 diagnoses affecting muscles, bones, joints and related tissues including tendons and ligaments. The use of 635nm red low-level laser has demonstrated beneficial effects for treating a range of painful musculoskeletal conditions including low back pain, plantar fasciitis, neck, and shoulder pain.Methods: Data is compiled from six IRB-approved clinical trials which assessed the efficacy of 635 nm lasers for reducing pain arising from chronic conditions. These included five randomized, placebo-controlled studies and one randomized comparative study.Results: Among subjects in the active treatment group, there was a 45.4% mean decrease in VAS scores compared to a 15.1% mean decrease among sham-treated subjects (p<0.0001). The active treatment group also documented significant improvement in range of motion, oswestry disability index, and foot function index. Conclusion:Based on the data the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the first low-level laser for the indication as adjunctive use in providing temporary relief of nociceptive musculoskeletal pain.