The short-term effects of low-level laser therapy on adults with knee arthritis on pain and stiffness as taken from the womac: a meta-analysis

Objective: To investigate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and improving pain and stiffness according to the pain and stiffness subscales of the WOMAC. Study Design: A meta-analysis of randomized placebo controlled studies that investigated the effects of LLLT on pain and stiffness in subjects with knee OA. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, selected studies comparing LLLT devices compared to placebo with an exercise program. The age of subjects ranged from 40-75 year olds and included both males and females. Knee OA as defined by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and, a Kellgren and Lawrence grade between 2-4 were included. All studies utilized the WOMAC and needed to specifically report subscores for pain and stiffness. Studies also used acceptable follow-up periods ranging from 2 to 6 weeks. Data from the pain and stiffness subscores of the WOMAC were analyzed to determine homogeneity. Results: Four randomized controlled trial (RCT) articles met the inclusion criteria. After analysis, it was determined that the studies were heterogeneous and we were unable to draw statistical conclusions from our analysis. Conclusion: Based on the 4 studies, the use of LLLT for patients with knee OA was inconclusive due to the presence of heterogeneity of the data included in the study. Key Words: knee osteoarthritis, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT, WOMAC, therapeutic exercise)