Ashfaq Ahmad, Mohammad Bandpei, Arooj Munawar, Syed Amir Gilani, Amjad Iqbal Burq.
Effect of low level laser therapy on partial tear of supraspinatus tendon.
J Pak Med Assoc Jan ;68(2):281-3.

Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is one of the emerging treatment options for supraspinatus tendinopathy. Focus is on the effectiveness of LLLT in patients with partial tear of supraspinatus tendon. Two patients had three assessments; at baseline, six weeks and three months after the treatment. Tendon thickness, tendon tear, range of motion, manual muscle strength, quality of life, disability of shoulder, arm and hand were measured using errmusculoskeletal ultrasound, goniometer, Oxford classification of muscle testing, QOL-EQ-5D-3L. Patients received LLLT on a treatment dose of 840nm wavelength, 200mW probe and 30 seconds on each point. Therapy was started with energy dose as recommended by world association of laser therapy. Energy dose was reduced by 30% when inflammation came under control. Along with laser, general exercise instructions, Range of motion exercise plan, sham ultrasound for three minutes and cold packs for 15 minutes were applied to the patients three days weekly for three months. Both patients had improved pain, tear thickness, range of motion and functional ability of shoulder joint. Case report suggests high quality randomized controlled trial to find effectiveness of laser either as separate or an adjunct treatment for partial tears of supraspinatus tendon.

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