[The influence of laser therapy on selected functional parameters of patients with spondyloarthrosis of the lower section of the spine]

Abstract

Spondyloarthrosis is a quickly growing disease in highly civilized communities. It is one of the most frequent causes for movement limitations and is listed as the main reason for the incapacitation for work among people of the working age. The following symptoms can be observed in patients with spondyloarthrosis: pain, limited spine mobility, increased muscle tone. Chronic pain and the associated limitation of movement underlie the quest for an effective therapy. Using laser therapy as part of physical therapy prompts research into the effectiveness of the measure in patients with spondyloarthrosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of laser therapy on spondyloarthrosis of the lumbar spine.

Material and methods: 60 patients suffering from chronic low back pain, diagnosed with a lumbar disc herniation with no nerve root symptoms, received laser therapy (820 nm, 400 mW, 6-12 J/cm2. Every patient underwent examinations before and after rehabilitation. Subjective pain assessment was carried out using a modified Laitinen questionnaire and visual analogue scale of pain intensity. Spine mobility was evaluated using Schober's test and the fingertip-to-floor-test. The obtained results were subject to a statistical analysis.

Results: Laser therapy was effective in the therapy of lumbar disc herniation. The results of the analysis showed that the intensity and frequency of pain decreased, as well as the use of painkillers. A vast improvement in global spine mobility and lumbosacral flexion and extension could be observed, too.

Conclusions: The study showed a slight analgesic effect and a substantial increase in spine mobility through laser biostimulation.