Short-term clinical efficacy of the pulsed Nd:YAG laser therapy on chronic nonspecific low back pain: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND: Chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP) is gradually increasing among populations worldwide and affects their activities. Recently, the Nd:YAG laser has been presented in the rehabilitation field. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to explore the short-term effects of the Nd:YAG laser on chronic non-specific LBP individuals. METHODS: Thirty-five individuals with chronic nonspecific LBP were included in the study from December 2019 to March 2020. Randomly, they were categorized to Nd:YAG group (n = 18) and sham laser as a control (n = 17) thrice weekly for a 6-week intervention. Modified Oswestry disability index (MODI), pain disability index (PDI), visual analogue scale (VAS), and lumbar flexion range of motion (ROM) have been assessed pre and post-6 weeks of the intervention. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in the Nd:YAG group (MODI, P < .001; PDI, P = .007; VAS, P < .001; lumbar ROM, P = .002), whereas the sham group showed no significant changes (MODI, P = .451; PDI, P = .339; VAS, P = .107; lumbar ROM, P = .296) after 6-week intervention. Between-group comparisons showed significant differences in tending toward the Nd:YAG group (MODI, P < .001; PDI, P = .046; VAS, P < .001; lumbar ROM, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: Regarding the present study outcomes, short-term pulsed Nd:YAG laser (6 weeks) may reduce functional disabilities and pain intensity, and improve the lumbar flexion ROM in patients with chronic nonspecific LBP. Further well-designed randomized controlled studies with large sample sizes should be conducted regarding laser treatment.