Do Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Benefit from Low-Level Laser Therapy? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Publication date: Available online 16 June 2017
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Thierry P.C. Franke, Bart W. Koes, Sven J.G. Geelen, Bionka M.A. Huisstede
ObjectiveTo systematically review the literature on the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome.Data SourcesThe Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PEDro were searched for relevant systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to April 8 2016.Study SelectionTwo reviewers independently applied the inclusion criteria to select potential studies.Data ExtractionTwo reviewers independently extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality.Data SynthesisA best-evidence synthesis was performed to summarize the results of the two systematic reviews and 17 RCTs that were included. Strong evidence was found for the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy compared to placebo treatment in the very short term (0≤5 weeks). After five weeks the positive effects of low-level laser therapy on pain, function, or recovery diminished over time (moderate and conflicting evidence were found at seven and 12-weeks follow-up, respectively).ConclusionIn the very short term low-level laser therapy is more effective as a single intervention than placebo low-level laser therapy in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, after which the positive effects of low-level laser therapy tend to subside. Evidence in the mid and long term is sparse.



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