The use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the Treatment of Trigger Points that are associated with Rotator Cuff Tendonitis.

A. Al-Shenqiti, J. Oldham, Centre for Rehabilitation Science University of Manchester. England.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of LLLT in the treatment of trigger points (TrPs) that are associated with rotator cuff tendonitis. METHOD: A double-blind randomised controlled trial was conducted. Sixty patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups: sham or laser therapy. The Laser (Excel, Omega Universal Technologies Ltd, London, UK) parameters used were a wavelenth of 820nm, a powere output of 100mW, a frequency of 5000Hz (modulated) and energy density of 32 J/cm2. The two groups received a course of 12 treatment sessions for four weeks (3 sessions per week). Pain, functional activities( as measured using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, SPADI), pressure pain threshold (PPT) and range of motion (ROM) were assessed pre and post treatment, with a three month follow-up assessment.

RESULTS: Significant improvements in pain (p < 0.001) were observed for the laser group (6cm median improvement on a 10cm VAS) compared to the sham group (2cm median improvement) immediately post treatment. The improvements in the laser group continued post treatment with a 7cm median improvement observed at three month follow-up. Smiliar between group differences were observed for ROM (p < 0.01), functional activities (p <= 0.001) and PPT (p <= 0.05).

DISCUSSION and CONCLUSION: The findings of the current study suggested that LLLT is effective in treating patients with TrPs associated with rotator cuff tendonitis, when using the parameters descirbed. However, the mechanism of its action is not yet clear, and will require further investigation..