The use of low intensity laser therapy in the treatment of myofascial trigger points: an updated critical review

Abstract

Objectives: This review describes the possible factors that may have contributed to the variability of the results between studies that have assessed the efficacy of low intensity laser therapy (LILT) in treating myofascial trigger points (MTrPs). Furthermore, it aims to make recommendations to overcome the methodological shortcomings identified. Methods: A search of the literature was conducted by a single reviewer. Only randomised controlled and clinical trials were included. Results: Sixteen studies were critically reviewed and showed considerable variability in treatment parameters, techniques, symptoms duration and diagnoses. Discussion: Studies that have investigated the use of LILT in treating MTrPs produce conflicting results regarding the efficacy of this treatment modality. However, these are probably due to varying symptoms duration, treatment parameters and techniques, non-homogenous populations, and inaccessible and/or poor laser machine specifications.

Effectiveness of physical and rehabilitation techniques in reducing pain in chronic trapezius myalgia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Although, the meta-analysis did not demonstrate heterogeneity (I 2 ¼ 0) between studies, the correspondent effect size resulted from studies with very serious limitations in the randomization process, 44,45 which is a source of bias which can A systematic review by Al-Shenqiti and Oldham 58 investigating the efficacy of laser in treating myofascial trigger points concluded that there was conflicting evidence, which is in accordance with the result of this review.…”

Management of Myofascial Pain of Upper Trapezius: A Three Group Comparison Study

“…However, laser is rated high in its effectiveness than other conventional modalities in literature. There are evidence to show the effect of laser therapy in the management of myofascial pain, however the results appear to be variable based on the parameters used for treatment ( Al, 2009 ).…”

The Use of Photomedicine in Musculoskeletal Pain

“…The significance of irradiance has been stressed by a number of researchers as one of the most influential treatment parameters [101,102]. However, unfortunately, quite few numbers of researchers reported this treatment parameter [99].…”

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