The Effect of Different Laser Intensities on Elderly with Knee Osteoarthritis

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two different intensities of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on reducing pain severity, improving the quality of life through increasing functional ability, and the active knee flexion range of motion in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis. Subjects: Thirty patients (male and female) aged between 60 and 70 years and diagnosed as chronic knee osteoarthritis participated in this study. Methods: Patients were assigned randomly into two groups: the first group (group A) 15 (4 male and 11 female) patients with a mean age of 64.3 (±6.3) years treated with a laser dose of 3 J/cm^2 over 5 points around the knee. The second group (group B) 15 (6 male and 9 female) patients with a mean age of 60.5 (±8.7) years treated with a laser dose of 6 J/cm^2 on the same 5 points around the knee. Both groups received an exercise program consisted of stretching for the quadriceps and calf muscles in addition to strengthening exercises in form of straight leg raising and quadriceps setting exercise. The treatment lasted for 12 sessions, 3 sessions per week each other day”. Patients were assessed before and after treatment by Visual Analogue Scale (for pain) WOMAC index, and universal goniometer (for quality of life). Results: Statistical analysis revealed that there was a significant improvement in pain intensity, functional ability, and range of active knee flexion in both treatment groups after treatment, with no significant difference between both treatment groups. Conclusion: Low-level laser therapy is effective in the treatment of elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis regarding the dose of 3 J/cm^2 or 6 J/cm^2. At the same time it is safe and applicable for elderly subjects.