Low level laser therapy in rheumatoid arthritis: ultrasonographic and clinical assessment of efficacy

Abstract

Background: There are some conflicting reports in the literature about the effects of Low Level Laser therapy (LLLT) on Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The aim of the current study was to investigate the efficacy of LLLT treatment on synovial inflammation in the hand joints of patients with RA, via clinical and ultrasonography evaluations. Materials and Methods: We recruited 35 patients with RA and whose proximal interphalangeal joints had mild or moderate active synovitis. We divided subjects into two groups randomly; 18 participants were determined as the laser treatment group, while 17 patients were determined as placebo group. Laser therapy was applied at a dose of 0.6 J/cm2 to the joints. Clinical and ultrasonographical assessments were performed. Results: Both groups had reduction in morning joint stiffness at the end of the treatment and at 3 months after therapy; however, laser therapy caused a significantly higher reduction in morning joint stiffness compared to placebo. While placebo did not reduce DHİ scores at the end of the treatment LLLT reduced DHİ scores. Conclusion: Our results raise the possibility that low-level laser treatment of joints affected with RA may be effective, at least in part; however, further studies are needed in order to clarify the efficacy of LLLT on synovitis caused by RA.

Keywords

• Low Level Laser Treatment
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• synovial inflammation

References

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