The effectiveness of low-level laser therapy on pain, self-reported hand function, and grip strength compared to placebo or "sham" treatment for adults with carpal tunnel syndrome: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common peripheral neuropathies in the upper extremity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review was to systematically and critically appraise the available literature for the effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on pain, self-reported hand function, and grip strength compared to placebo treatment in adults with CTS.

METHODOLOGY: Seven databases were searched from 2000 to March 2015 namely: Cinahl, Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, PEDro, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus. Key search terms were: CTS, LLLT, and physiotherapy. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The methodological quality was appraised with the PEDro scale. Data were extracted and captured on an Excel spreadsheet.

RESULTS

The nine included randomized control trials (RCTs) had an average score of 8.2/11 according to the PEDro scale. The heterogeneity of the LLLT regimes used made statistical pooling inappropriate for this review and results were described narratively.

CONCLUSION

No strong evidence exists concerning the effects of LLLT on CTS in adults. Studies that used 780-860 nm Lasers and energy dosages of 9-11 J/cm2 or 10.8 J reported a more favorable outcome for pain, symptom severity, and functional ability as well as grip strength at the end of treatment and short-term follow up.