Bettencourt F
Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is characterized by a gradual wearing away of the cartilage in the joint through strain originating from weight bearing, repeated injury, and/or damage and is one of the most associated causes of knee pain. Current options for pain management include medication or surgery. Consequently patients are alternatively seeking a non-invasive approach that can help manage their pain. Recently, Class IV laser has gained popularity due to its clinical efficacy in pain management and non-invasive application.
Objective: The aim of this randomized control trial was to evaluate the effects of a 30W powered Class IV laser with 1064 nm wavelength on knee pain in the treatment of patients with KOA.
Methods: Patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Each patient underwent 7 treatment sessions every other day. Group-I (Laser group): 30 patients were treated with a semi conductive Class IV Laser with Scanning System applicator (BTL Industries Ltd.) With a maximal power of 30 W and 1064 nm wavelength. Group-II (Control group): 30 patients were treated with the same device without emission from the laser diode, and only a visible navigation beam to act as a placebo. All patients perception of pain was evaluated prior to beginning treatment (baseline), following the first session, after the 7 therapies, and 1 month following the last treatment using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).
Results: The Man-Whitney test revealed there was a significant (P=0.01) reduction in pain according to the VAS results for the laser group (44.24% improvement), whereas the control group displayed no significant difference (3.93% improvement) in pain perception following the treatment(s).
Conclusion: Class IV laser treatment was found to be an effective modality in reducing knee pain in KOA patients.