Comparison between Epidural Block vs. High Intensity Laser Therapy for Controlling Chronic Low Back Pain

Background: Chronic low back pain is among a wide spread musculoskeletal conditions that is related to disability with high economy cost. There are several treatment modalities for controlling chronic low back pain (CLBP), among them high intensity laser therapy (HILT) and epidural blocks (EB) use more commonly. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits and hazards of each of these two methods. Materials and Methods: We designed a randomized controlled double blind study during 24 months.101 patients divided in 2 groups (52 in EB and 49 in HILT group). Pain intensity was assessed by using faces pain scales (FPS) and LINKERT questionariesʹ before procedure and during one, four, 12, and 24 weeks after beginning the procedures. Results: There were no differences between two groups in FPS lumber tenderness, straight leg rising test (SLRT), paresthesia, deep tendon reflex (DTR), and imaging changes. Motor problems seem was less in HILT group comparing EB. Conclusion: This study showed both EB and HILT approaches can control the pain intensity and motor activities in CLBP patients. Future studies will clarify the precise importance of each these methods