title: The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain.
abstract: Pain is the most common reason for physician consultation in the United States. One out of three Americans is affected by chronic pain annually. The number one reason for missed work or school days is musculoskeletal pain. Currently accepted therapies consist of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, opiate pain medications and surgery, each of which carries their own specific risk profiles. What is needed are effective treatments for pain which have an acceptably low risk-profile. For over forty years, low level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) and LED (light emitting diode) therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) has been shown to reduce inflammation and edema, induce analgesia, and promote healing in a range of musculoskeletal pathologies. The purpose of this paper is to review the use of LLLT for pain, the biochemical mechanisms of action, the dose response curves, and how LLLT may be employed by orthopedic surgeons to improve outcomes and reduce adverse events. With the predicted epidemic of chronic pain in developed countries, it is imperative to validate cost-effective and safe techniques for managing painful conditions which would allow people to live active and productive lives. Moreover the acceptance of LLLT (which is currently being used by many specialties around the world) into the armamentarium of the American health care provider would allow for additional treatment options for patients. A new cost-effective therapy for pain could elevate quality of life while reducing financial strains.
authors: Gulf Coast Spine Care LTD, USA; Laser Health Spa LLC, USA.
authors: Howard B
authors: HB
authors: Cotler
authors: Brain and Spine Research Institute, University of Sydney, Australia.
authors: Roberta T
authors: RT
authors: Chow
authors: Wellman Center for Photo medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, USA; Division of Health Sciences and Technology, USA.
authors: Michael R
authors: MR
authors: Hamblin
authors: Thor Photomedicine Ltd, UK.
authors: James
authors: J
authors: Carroll
keywords: Injury repair; Low level laser therapy; Musculoskeletal; Pain; Photobiomodulation