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SPIE Abstract deadline 12 July 2010

Posted on 17 June 2010 by James Carroll

Next January 2011 in San Francisco we will have the sixth annual conference on “Mechanisms for low light therapy VI” . The meeting this year in San Francisco was highly successful and next year’s will continue the tradition I am therefore pleased to be able to invite you to submit an abstract (Deadline 12 July 2010) and a conference proceedings paper (Deadline 15 Dec 2010) to “Mechanisms for low light therapy VI” Conference BO108 Part of SPIE’s International Symposium on Biomedical Optics (BiOS) 22 – 27 January 2011 at the Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco, California, USA. BO108 is expected to be held on Sat Jan 22.

Submit your abstract here http://spie.org/bo108

submit your abstract here

http://spie.org/bo108

Michael R Hamblin Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Department of Dermatology

Harvard Medical School

BAR 414

Wellman Center for Photomedicine

Posted in Conference |

LLLT Literature Watch for May 2010

Posted on 12 June 2010 by James Carroll

34 new LLLT papers for your to review including LED nerve regeneration, post-mastectomy lymphedema, healing of mucous membrane pemphigoid, biceps muscle performance and LED attenuation of oxidative renal damage in Type I diabetic rats.

P.S. when did you last get trained?

How much LLLT is enough, how much is to much?
What are joules and J/cm2?
Do they matter ?
What is the difference between laser and LED?

Attend a THOR training to find out. Details here https://www.thorlaser.com/courses/

Low Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: A Promising Procedure.

Yilmaz HG, Kusakci Seker B, Bayindir H, Tozum TF

Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Near East University, Mersin10, Turkey.

Background: Mucous membrane pemphigoid is a heterogeneous group of autoimmune, subepithelial blistering diseases. A combination of both topical and systemic steroid treatment is often used when managing patients with mucous membrane pemphigoid. The use of systemic steroids presents an increased risk of adverse side effects. Consequently, effective alternative modalities of therapy should be considered, such as application of low level laser therapy (LLLT). Methods: Patient suffering from mucous membrane pemphigoid who was successfully treated with the application of local corticosteroids and LLLT using an 810 nm diode laser was presented. The lesions were treated by LLLT over a period of 7 days using a continuous waveform for 40 seconds and an energy density of 5 J/cm(2). Results: Following treatment a significant improvement in tissue color and consistency was observed. The patient was followed every month for a period of 12 months, and the lesions healed uneventfully. Conclusions: The results reported in this case show that healing of mucous membrane pemphigoid can be achieved when LLLT is used as an adjunct to following local corticosteroid application.

J Periodontol 2010 May 3

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20450370

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

The short-term effects of low-level laser therapy in the management of breast-cancer-related lymphedema.

Dirican, A, Andacoglu, O, Johnson, R, McGuire, K, Mager, L, Soran, A

Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Magee-Womens Hospital University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

BACKGROUND: Breast-cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a chronic disease, and currently there is no definitive treatment for it. There are some therapeutic interventions targeted to decrease the limb swelling and the associated problems. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used in the treatment of post-mastectomy lymphedema since 2007 in the US. The aim of this study is to review our short-term experience with LLLT in the treatment of BCRL. METHOD: Seventeen BCRL patients referred to our lymphedema program between 2007 and 2009 were enrolled in this study. All patients had experienced at least one conventional treatment modality such as complex physical therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and/or pneumatic pump therapy. LLLT was added to patients’ ongoing therapeutic regimen. All patients completed the full course of LLLT consisting of two cycles. The difference between sums of the circumferences of both affected and unaffected arms (DeltaC), pain score, scar mobility, and range of motion were measured before and after first and second cycles of LLLT sequentially. RESULTS: All patients were female with a median age of 51.8 (44-64) years. DeltaC decreased 54% (15-85%) and 73% (33-100%), after the first and second cycles of LLLT, respectively. Fourteen out of seventeen experienced decreased pain with motion by an average of 40% (0-85%) and 62.7% (0-100%) after the first and second cycle of LLLT, respectively. Three patients had no improvement in pain after LLLT. Scar mobility increased in 13 (76.4%) and shoulder range of motion improved in 14 (82.3%) patients after LLLT. One patient developed cellulitis during LLLT. CONCLUSION: Patients with BCRL received additional benefits from LLLT when used in conjunction with standard lymphedema treatment. These benefits include reduction in limb circumference, pain, increase in range of motion and scar mobility. Additionally, two cycles of LLLT were found to be superior to one in this study.

Support Care Cancer 2010 May 6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20445997

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[Cytological evaluation of laser therapy influence upon skin reparation]

Evidence on the studying of the effectiveness the low intensive laser radiation influence as complex treatment of patient with maxillofacial phlegmons with using of the cytological method were presented. Results of the laser therapeutist were in acceleration of the inflammation stage. The neutrophil granulocytes and macrophages settled down in wound earlier then in the control. This led to acceleration of the wound healing.

Stomatologiia (Mosk) 2010 89(1) 33-6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20436407

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the Development of Exercise-Induced Skeletal Muscle Fatigue and Changes in Biochemical Markers Related to Post-Exercise Recovery.

Leal Junior EC, Lopes-Martins RA, Frigo L, De Marchi T, Rossi RP, de Godoi V, Tomazoni SS, da Silva DP, Basso M, Filho PL, de Valls Corsetti F, Iversen VV, Bjordal JM

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover double-blinded placebo-controlled trial. OBJECTIVE: To investigate if low level laser therapy (LLLT) can affect biceps muscle performance, fatigue development, and biochemical markers of post-exercise recovery. BACKGROUND: Cell and animal studies have suggested that LLLT can reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in muscle tissue. But it remains uncertain whether these findings can translate into humans in sport and exercise situations. METHODS: Nine healthy male volleyball players participated in the study. They received either active LLLT (cluster probe with 5 laser diodes, l=810 nm, 200 mW power output, 30 seconds of irradiation, applied in 2 locations over the biceps of the non-dominant arm, 60 J of total energy) or placebo LLLT using an identical cluster probe. The intervention or placebo were applied 3 minutes before the performance of exercise. All subjects performed voluntary elbow flexion repetitions with a workload of 75% of their maximal voluntary contraction force (MVC) until exhaustion. RESULTS: Active LLLT increased the number of repetitions by 14.5% (mean of 39.56, SD +/- 4.33 versus 34.56 +/- 5.64, p=0.037) and the elapsed time before exhaustion by 8.0% (p=0.034), when compared to the placebo treatment. The biochemical markers also indicated that recovery may be positively affected by LLLT as indicated by post-exercise blood lactate levels (p<0.01), Creatine Kinase (CK) activity (p=0.017), and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels (p=0.047) showing a faster recovery with LLLT application prior to the exercise. CONCLUSION: We conclude that pre-exercise irradiation of the biceps with an LLLT dose of 6 J per application location, applied in 2 locations, increased endurance for repeated elbow flexion against resistance, and decreased post-exercise levels of blood lactate, CK, and CRP. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapy, Level 1a. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, Epub 12 April 2010. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3294.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010 Apr 12

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20436237

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Clinical and microbiologic follow-up evaluations after non-surgical periodontal treatment with erbium:YAG laser and scaling and root planing.

Lopes BM, Theodoro LH, Melo RF, Thompson GM, Marcantonio RA

Department of Periodontology, Araraquara Dental School, UNESP-Sao Paulo State University, Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: This study compared erbium-doped: yttrium, aluminum, and garnet (Er:YAG) laser irradiation (100 mJ/pulse; 10 Hz; 12.9 J/cm(2)) with or without conventional scaling and root planing (SRP) to SRP only for treatment of periodontal pockets. METHODS: Nineteen patients with pockets from 5 to 9 mm were included. In a split-mouth design, each site was allocated to a treatment group: 1) SRPL, SRP and laser; 2) L, laser; 3) SRP, SRP only; and 4) C, no treatment. Clinical parameters of probing depth (PD), gingival recession, and clinical attachment level (CAL) were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. Visible plaque index, gingival bleeding index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and subgingival plaque samples were also measured 12 days postoperatively, in addition to the above mentioned months. Intergroup and intragroup statistical analyses were performed (P <0.05). RESULTS: GI decreased for SRPL and increased for L, SRP, and C (P <0.05) 12 days postoperatively and decreased for SRPL and SRP (P <0.05) 3, 6, and 12 months after baseline; BOP and PD decreased for all treated groups (P <0.01) 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. CAL gain was significant for SRPL, L, and SRP (P <0.05) 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. SRPL and L presented a significant reduction in the percentage of sites with bacteria 6 and 12 months after treatment (P <0.05). CONCLUSION: Non-surgical periodontal treatment with Er:YAG laser may be an alternative treatment for reduction and control of the proliferation of microorganisms in persistent periodontitis.

J Periodontol 2010 May 81(5) 682-91

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20429647

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[Effect of the photosensitizers pheophorbid a and protoporphyrin IX on skin wound healing by the action of low-intensity laser irradiation]

The effect of photosensitizer with subsequent He-Ne (632.8 nm; 3 mW/cm2) laser irradiation on experimental skin wound healing has been studied. Pheophorbid a and protoporphyrin IX were used as photosensitizers. It was found that the application of the photosensitizer and subsequent laser irradiation, first, decreased the amount and the functional activity of leukocyte in wound excudate and, second, inhibited the SOD-activity, compared to that of the control group. Moreover, pheophorbide a and protoporphyrin practically did not affect the total healing period but decreased the length of the inflammation stage. It was supposed that these effects are related to the generation of reactive oxygen species during irradiation.

Biofizika 2010 Mar-Apr 55(2) 350-5

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20429292

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

The evolution of transcranial laser therapy for acute ischemic stroke, including a pooled analysis of NEST-1 and NEST-2.

Stemer AB, Huisa BN, Zivin JA

University of California, San Diego Medical Center, Medical Office North, 3rd floor, Suite 3, 200 West Arbor Drive #8466, San Diego, CA 92103-8466, USA.

Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator is the only proven therapy for acute ischemic stroke. Not enough patients are eligible for treatment and additional new therapies are needed. Recently, laser technology has been applied to acute ischemic stroke. This noninvasive technique uses near-infrared wavelengths applied to the scalp within 24 h of symptom onset. The mechanism is incompletely understood but may involve increased mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate production. Animal models demonstrated safety and efficacy warranting randomized controlled trials in humans. NEST-1 (phase 2) and NEST-2 (phase 3) confirmed the safety of transcranial laser therapy, although efficacy was not found in NEST-2. Pooled analysis of NEST-1 and NEST-2 revealed a significantly improved success rate in patients treated with laser therapy. Further phase 3 testing is planned and may create a new paradigm for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke.

Curr Cardiol Rep 2010 Jan 12(1) 29-33

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20425181

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Conservative Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation With Associated Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review.

Hahne, AJ, Ford, JJ, McMeeken, JM

From the *Musculoskeletal Research Centre, School of Physiotherapy, LA Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; and daggerFaculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Australia.

STUDY DESIGN.: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. OBJECTIVE.: To determine the efficacy and adverse effects of conservative treatments for people who have lumbar disc herniation with associated radiculopathy (LDHR). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA.: Although conservative management is commonly used for people who have LDHR, the efficacy and adverse effects of conservative treatments for this condition are unclear. METHODS.: We searched 10 computer databases for trials published in English between 1971 and 2008. Trials focusing on people with referred leg symptoms and radiologic confirmation of a lumbar disc herniation were included if at least 1 group received a conservative and noninjection treatment. RESULTS.: Eighteen trials involving 1671 participants were included. Seven (39%) trials were considered of high quality. Meta-analysis on 2 high-quality trials revealed that advice is less effective than microdiscectomy surgery at short-term follow-up, but equally effective at long-term follow-up. Individual high-quality trials provided moderate evidence that stabilization exercises are more effective than no treatment, that manipulation is more effective than sham manipulation for people with acute symptoms and an intact anulus, and that no difference exists among traction, laser, and ultrasound. One trial showed some additional benefit from adding mechanical traction to medication and electrotherapy methods. Adverse events were associated with traction (pain, anxiety, lower limb weakness, and fainting) and ibuprofen (gastrointestinal events). CONCLUSION.: Advice is less effective than microdiscectomy in the short term but equally effective in the long term for people who have LDHR. Moderate evidence favors stabilization exercises over no treatment, manipulation over sham manipulation, and the addition of mechanical traction to medication and electrotherapy. There was no difference among traction, laser, and ultrasound. Adverse events were associated with traction and ibuprofen. Additional high-quality trials would allow firmer conclusions regarding adverse effects and efficacy.

Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2010 Apr 23

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20421859

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Light distribution in intravascular low level laser therapy applying mathematical simulation: a comparative study.

Li X, Cheng G, Huang N, Wang L, Liu F, Gu Y

Department of Laser Medicine, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.

Intravascular low level laser therapy (ILLLT) has been applied in the treatment of many diseases for about twenty years. However, much fundamental work has not been done on its dosimetry. The study was designed to compare the difference of light distribution during ILLLT between using flat end fiber and optical fiber coupled with cylindrical light diffuser. Light distribution of He-Ne laser was processed by Monte Carlo model. The laser output was 5 mW. The diameter of both optical fibers was 400 microm. Four tissue optical parameters were chosen for simulation. The results showed that optical parameters of blood are important to determine the distribution of laser energy. The highest power density could increase to over 5000 mW/cm2 using flat end fiber. And the laser energy was absorbed by the blood cells in very small area before the tip of flat end fiber. But when using optical fiber coupled with cylindrical light diffuser, the highest power density was about 100 mW/cm2. More volume of blood cells could be irradiated by laser light. In summary, optical fiber coupled with cylindrical light diffuser is superior to flat end fiber at the aspect of increasing the volume of irradiated blood and decreasing unwanted damage to blood cells during intravascular low level laser therapy.

J Xray Sci Technol 2010 Jan 1 18(1) 47-55

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20421704

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Is low-level laser therapy effective in acute or chronic low back pain?

Ay S, Dogan SK, Evcik D

Department of Physical Rehabilitation and Medicine, Ufuk University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey, saimeay@yahoo.com.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on pain and functional capacity in patients with acute and chronic low back pain caused by lumbar disk herniation (LDH). LLLT has been used to treat acute and chronic pain of musculoskeletal system disorders. This study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Forty patients with acute (26 females/14 males) and 40 patients with chronic (20 females/20 males) low back pain caused by LDH were included in the study. Patients were randomly allocated into four groups. Group 1 (acute LDH, n = 20) received hot-pack + laser therapy; group 2 (chronic LDH, n = 20) received hot-pack + laser therapy; group 3 (acute LDH, n = 20) received hot-pack + placebo laser therapy, and group 4 (chronic LDH, n = 20) received hot-pack + placebo laser therapy, for 15 sessions during 3 weeks. Assessment parameters included pain, patients’ global assessment, physician’s global assessment, and functional capacity. Pain was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) and Likert scale. Patients’ and physician’s global assessment were also measured with VAS. Modified Schober test and flexion and lateral flexion measures were used in the evaluation of range of motion (ROM) of lumbar spine. Roland Disability Questionnaire (RDQ) and Modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (MODQ) were used in the functional evaluation. Measurements were done before and after 3 weeks of treatment. After the treatment, there were statistically significant improvements in pain severity, patients’ and physician’s global assessment, ROM, RDQ scores, and MODQ scores in all groups (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were detected between four treatment groups with respect to all outcome parameters (p > 0.05). There were no differences between laser and placebo laser treatments on pain severity and functional capacity in patients with acute and chronic low back pain caused by LDH.

Clin Rheumatol 2010 Apr 23

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20414695

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[Effects of low-level helium-neon laser on induced wound healing in rats]

Busnardo VL, Biondo-Simoes ML

Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Parana, Curitiba, PR, Brasil. vivianelucci@up.edu.br

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of low-level helium-neon (HeNe) laser on cutaneous wound healing in rats. METHODS: Sixty Wistar rats were divided into control group and experimental group. A sutured longitudinal, dorsal-medial incision was made, with simple separate stitches. The experimental group was irradiated daily in three areas of the wound with HeNe laser (5mW maximum continuous power, 632.8 nm wavelength, 4 J/cm(2) energy density and 0.015 cm(2) laser beam area) for 36 seconds. The areas were evaluated on the third, seventh and fourteenth days postoperative. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin to determine the type of inflammatory reaction according to the protocol by Vizzotto et al. (2003)* and with Picrosirius to identify types I and III collagen and the collagen maturation index (CMI). Immunohistochemical detection was employed with anti-CD45-LCA to recognize the inflammatory cells. RESULTS: Both groups had the same inflammatory pattern. The experimental group had fewer inflammatory cells at the three evaluation times (p<0.001) with faster reduction in the number of leukocytes. The experimental group had greater total collagen density on the third day (p=0.001), with more type III collagen (p=0.001) and more type I collagen (p=0.001). There was no significant difference in the CMI. CONCLUSION: Low-level laser irradiation does not change the quality of the inflammatory response, but it does reduce its intensity; it increases collagen deposition in the early stages of the healing process and does not interfere with collagen maturation.

Rev Bras Fisioter 2010 Feb 14(1) 45-51

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20414561

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[The use of electrothermal and phototherapeutic methods for the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome: a systematic review]

Ricci NA, Dias CN, Driusso P

Departamento de Fisioterapia, Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos, Sao Carlos, SP, Brasil. natalia_ricci@hotmail.com

OBJECTIVE: To systematically investigate the scientific evidence relating to electrothermal and phototherapeutic methods for the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). METHODS: The search for reports on interventions using electrothermal and phototherapy for FMS was carried out in the Pubmed, Medline, Lilacs, Scielo, ISI Web of Knowledge, PEDro and Cochrane Collaboration databases. Randomized controlled clinical trials published over the past 10 years in English, Portuguese and Spanish were selected. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Jadad scale. The analysis on the study results was done by means of critical review of the content. RESULTS: Seven studies were reviewed in full, and these identified interventions using laser (n=4), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS; n=1), interferential current (IFC) alone (n=1) and IFC combined with ultrasound (US; n=1). Only two studies showed good methodological quality according to the Jadad scale. Most of the studies (n=6) used the criteria of the American College of Rheumatology for the clinical diagnosis of FMS. Pain was the most frequently evaluated FMS symptom. The intervention methods and their duration varied widely, and there was no mention of the parameters used in the electrothermal and phototherapeutic methods. Pain levels reduced significantly in all of the studies. CONCLUSION: There are still limitations on the generalization of the results, adverse reactions and doses of the FMS treatment. Further studies are needed to establish the effectiveness of electrothermal and phototherapy in treating FMS.

Rev Bras Fisioter 2010 Feb 14(1) 1-9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20414555

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Mechanism of high-power NIR laser bacteria inactivation.

Hibst R, Graser R, Udart M, Stock K

Institut fur Lasertechnologien in der Medizin und Messtechnik an der Universitat Ulm, Helmholtzstrasse 12, 89081 Ulm, Germany.

Lasers are used in dentistry for a variety of indications. One of these is the disinfection of root canals or the sterilization of residual caries. Many studies have demonstrated the capacity to kill bacteria for lasers but the fundamental mechanism of the laser effect remains quite unclear. With our experiments we wanted to determine whether high-power NIR laser bacterial killing is caused by the light itself (photochemical effect) or by a photothermal process. In order to differentiate between mechanisms we heated bacteria suspensions of a nonpathogenic strain of E. coli by a water bath and by a diode laser (940 nm) with the same temporal temperature course. Furthermore, bacteria suspensions were irradiated while the temperature was fixed by ice water. Killing of bacteria was measured via fluorescence labelling. Comparison of killing rates between laser and water-based heating shows no significant differences. The most important parameter is the maximum temperature. Laser irradiation of bacteria at low temperatures does not result in killing. Our experiments show that at least for E. coli bacteria inactivation by high-power laser irradiation is solely based on a thermal process. ((c) 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim).

J Biophotonics 2010 Apr 21

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20411570

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

In Vivo Low-level Light Therapy Increases Cytochrome Oxidase in Skeletal Muscle.

Hayworth, CR, Rojas, JC, Padilla, E, Holmes, GM, Sheridan, EC, Gonzalez-Lima, F

Departments of Psychology, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX.

Abstract Low-level light therapy (LLLT) increases survival of cultured cells, improves behavioral recovery from neurodegeneration and speeds wound healing. These beneficial effects are thought to be mediated by upregulation of mitochondrial proteins, especially the respiratory enzyme cytochrome oxidase. However, the effects of in vivo LLLT on cytochrome oxidase in intact skeletal muscle have not been previously investigated. We used a sensitive method for enzyme histochemistry of cytochrome oxidase to examine the rat temporalis muscle 24 h after in vivo LLLT. The findings showed for the first time that in vivo LLLT induced a dose- and fiber type-dependent increase in cytochrome oxidase in muscle fibers. LLLT was particularly effective at enhancing the aerobic capacity of intermediate and red fibers. The findings suggest that LLLT may enhance the oxidative energy metabolic capacity of different types of muscle fibers, and that LLLT may be used to enhance the aerobic potential of skeletal muscle.

Photochem Photobiol 2010 Apr 16

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20408982

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Effect of HeNe Laser Irradiation on Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Expression of Cytokines and Chemokines in Paracoccidioidomycotic Lesions.

Nagib PR, Gameiro J, da Costa TA, Di Gangi R, da Silva Ribeiro J, Paulino LC, Verinaud L

Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goias-UFG, Goiania, Goias, Brazil.

Abstract Paracoccidioidomycosis is the most prevalent human mycosis in Latin America. Cutaneous lesions are extremely painful and sensitive, and current treatment with antifungal drugs is lengthy and may cause side effects to patients. In this perspective, the helium-neon (HeNe) laser emerges as a novel therapy form due to its ability to heal wounds without changing cell function. In this work, we evaluate the effects of HeNe laser irradiation on extracellular matrix deposition and expression of cytokines and chemokines in cutaneous lesions caused by experimental infection of Balb/c mice. Our results showed decreased levels of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-17 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and of anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokines in lesions exposed to HeNe laser irradiation. Chemokines CCL3 and CXCL10 showed decreased levels in laser-treated lesions, but no significant difference was observed in relation to CCL5 expression. We also detected decreased density of fibronectin and laminin in HeNe laser-treated lesions. Data presented herein support the validity of our previous results suggesting positive effects of HeNe laser in accelerating wound healing in this experimental model. We believe that HeNe laser is a new nonharmful strategy that may be used as adjuvant and/or alternative therapy for improving treatment of paracoccidioidomycotic lesions.

Photochem Photobiol 2010 Apr 16

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20408980

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Light therapy by blue LED improves wound healing in an excision model in rats.

Adamskaya, N, Dungel, P, Mittermayr, R, Hartinger, J, Feichtinger, G, Wassermann, K, Redl, H, van Griensven, M

Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center, Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Donaueschingenstrasse 13, A-1200 Vienna, Austria.

BACKGROUND: Low level light therapy (LLLT) is an attractive alternative to enhance wound healing. So far most studies are performed with red or infrared irradiation. However, we recently showed that blue light (470nm) can significantly influence biological systems, improving perfusion by release of nitric oxide from nitrosyl complexes with haemoglobin in a skin flap model in rats. Here, we compared the effects of blue and red low level light by light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on in vivo wound healing in an excision wound model in rats. METHODS: Circular excision wounds were surgically created on the dorsum of each rat. Excisions on either the left or right side were illuminated post-OP and on five consecutive days for 10min by LED at 470nm or 630nm with an intensity of 50mW/cm(2), while protecting the contralateral side from exposure. In the control group, neither side was illuminated. On day 7 post-OP, we analysed planimetric and histological parameters, as well as expression of keratin-1, keratin-10 and keratin-17 on mRNA level. RESULTS: Illumination substantially influenced wound healing. Blue light significantly decreased wound size on day 7, which correlated with enhanced epithelialisation. Light also affected mRNA expression. Both wavelengths decreased keratin-1 mRNA on day 7 post-OP, while keratin-10 mRNA level was elevated in both light treated group compared to control. Keratin-17 mRNA was also elevated in the red light group, but was unchanged in the blue light group. CONCLUSION: In contrast to previous studies, we showed that also blue light significantly influences wound healing. Furthermore, our data suggest that light therapy can play an important role in normotrophic wound healing by affecting keratin expression. Illumination would provide an easily applicable, safe and cost-effective treatment of surface wounds.

Injury 2010 Apr 16

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20400080

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

A short-term evaluation of Nd:YAG laser as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in treatment of periodontal inflammation.

Qadri, T, Poddani, P, Javed, F, Tuner, J, Gustafsson, A

Division of Periodontology, Department of Dental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.

Background: The aim of this split-mouth, single blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was to compare the short-term outcome of combined scaling and root planing (SRP) and Neodymium Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser irradiation with SRP alone. Methods: Thirty patients were recruited. Mandibular left or right side was randomly assigned as the test- (SRP with laser treatment) and control-side (SRP alone). The water-cooled Nd:YAG laser was used at four Watt, 80 millijoule per pulse, 50 Hertz, and with a pulse width of 350 microseconds. At baseline, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were taken from the test and control sides and levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8, Interleukin (IL)-1beta, -4, -6, and -8 were measured using standard techniques. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI) and probing pocket depth (PPD) were measured by calibrated examiners. Results: At the one week follow-up, PPD (P <0.001), PI (P <0.05) and GCF volume (P <0.001) showed significant improvement on the test-side compared to the control-side. At the three-month follow-up, PPD (P <0.01), PI (P <0.01), GI (P <0.001) and GCF volume (P <0.05) also showed significant improvement on the test-side compared to the control-side. At the one week follow up, the IL-1beta and MMP-8 levels were significantly reduced on the test-side compared to the control-side. The three-month follow-up confirmed that the improvements on the test-site had been sustained compared to the control site. Conclusions: In short-term, SRP in combination with a single application of a water cooled Nd:YAG laser significantly improves clinical signs associated with periodontal inflammation compared to treatment by SRP alone.

J Periodontol 2010 Apr 16

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20397904

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Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Body Contouring and Spot Fat Reduction.

Caruso-Davis MK, Guillot TS, Podichetty VK, Mashtalir N, Dhurandhar NV, Dubuisson O, Yu Y, Greenway FL

School of Human Ecology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA.

BACKGROUND: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is commonly used in medical applications, but scientific studies of its efficacy and the mechanism by which it causes loss of fat from fat cells for body contouring are lacking. This study examined the effectiveness and mechanism by which 635-680 nm LLLT acts as a non-invasive body contouring intervention method. METHODS: Forty healthy men and women ages 18-65 years with a BMI <30 kg/m(2) were randomized 1:1 to laser or control treatment. Subject’s waistlines were treated 30 min twice a week for 4 weeks. Standardized waist circumference measurements and photographs were taken before and after treatments 1, 3, and 8. Subjects were asked not to change their diet or exercise habits. In vitro assays were conducted to determine cell lysis, glycerol, and triglyceride release. RESULTS: Data were analyzed for those with body weight fluctuations within 1.5 kg during 4 weeks of the study. Each treatment gave a 0.4-0.5 cm loss in waist girth. Cumulative girth loss after 4 weeks was -2.15 cm (-0.78 +/- 2.82 vs. 1.35 +/- 2.64 cm for the control group, p < 0.05). A blinded evaluation of standardized pictures showed statistically significant cosmetic improvement after 4 weeks of laser treatment. In vitro studies suggested that laser treatment increases fat loss from adipocytes by release of triglycerides, without inducing lipolysis or cell lysis. CONCLUSIONS: LLLT achieved safe and significant girth loss sustained over repeated treatments and cumulative over 4 weeks of eight treatments. The girth loss from the waist gave clinically and statistically significant cosmetic improvement.

Obes Surg 2010 Apr 15

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20393809

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Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) attenuates RhoA mRNA expression in the rat bronchi smooth muscle exposed to tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

de Lima FM, Bjordal JM, Albertini R, Santos FV, Aimbire F

Instituto de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, IP&D, Av. Shishima Hifumi, 2911, Sao Jose dos Campos, CEP: 12244-000, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been found to produce anti-inflammatory effects in a variety of disorders. Bronchial smooth muscle (BSM) hyperreactivity is associated with increased Ca(+2) sensitivity and increased RhoA mRNA expression. In the current study, we investigated if LLLT could reduce BSM contraction force and RhoA mRNA expression in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced BSM hyperreactivity. In the study, 112 male Wistar rats were divided randomly into 16 groups, and BSM was harvested and suspended in TNF-alpha baths for 6 and 24 h, respectively. Irradiation with LLLT was performed with a wavelength of 660 nm for 42 s with a dose of 1.3 J/cm(2). This LLLT dose was administered once in the 6-h group and twice in the 24-h group. LLLT significantly decreased contraction force in BSM at 6 h (TNF-alpha + LLLT: 11.65 +/- 1.10 g/100 mg of tissue) (F = 3115) and at 24 h (TNF-alpha + LLLT: 14.15 +/- 1.1 g/100 mg of tissue) (F = 3245, p < 0.05) after TNF-alpha, respectively, when compared to vehicle-bathed groups (control). LLLT also significantly decreased the expression of RhoA mRNA in BSM segments at 6 h (1.22 +/- 0.20) (F = 2820, p < 0.05) and 24 h (2.13 +/- 0.20) (F = 3324, p < 0.05) when compared to BSM segments incubated with TNF-alpha without LLLT irradiation. We conclude that LLLT administered with this protocol, reduces RhoA mRNA expression and BSM contraction force in TNF-alpha-induced BSM hyperreactivity.

Lasers Med Sci 2010 Apr 15

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20393772

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Mechanical evaluation of the influence of low-level laser therapy in secondary stability of implants in mice shinbones.

Maluf AP, Maluf RP, da Rocha Brito C, Franca FM, de Brito RB Jr

Sao Leopoldo Mandic Dental Research Institute, Campinas, SP, Brazil, alemaluf@terra.com.br.

The present work evaluates mechanically the bone-implant attachment submitted or not to low-level laser therapy, with wavelength of 795 nm, in a continuous way, with power of 120 mW. The implant was placed in one of the shinbones of 24 mice, randomly distributed into two groups. The experimental group was submitted to six laser applications, divided into four points previously established, two lateral and two longitudinal, six times 8 J/cm(2) with an interval of 2 days, totaling the dose of 48 J/cm(2). The control group did not receive laser therapy. The interval between applications was 48 h and the irradiations began immediately after the end of the implant surgeries. The two groups were killed on the 14th day and a bone block of the area was removed where the implant was inserted. A torque machine was used to measure the torque needed for loosening the implants. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups. The experimental group presented larger difficulty for breaking up the implant interface with the bone block than the control group. It can be concluded that with the animal model and the protocol of irradiation present in this study, the laser therapy demonstrated capacity to increase the attachment bone implant.

Lasers Med Sci 2010 Apr 15

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20393769

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Development of compression-controlled low-level laser probe system: towards clinical application.

Yeo C, Son T, Park J, Lee YH, Kwon K, Nelson JS, Jung B

Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yonsei University, 234 Maeji-Ri, Heungup-Myeon, Wonju-Si, Gangwon-Do, 220-710, Korea.

Various physico-chemical tissue optical clearing (TOC) methods have been suggested to maximize photon density in tissue. In order to enhance photon density, a compression-controlled low-level laser probe (CCLLP) system was developed by utilizing the principle of mechanical tissue compression. Negative compression (NC) was applied to the laser probes built in various diameters and simultaneously the laser was irradiated into ex-vivo porcine skin samples. Laser photon density (LPD) was evaluated as a function of NC and probe diameter by analyzing 2D diffusion images of the laser exposures. The CCLLP system resulted in a concentrated laser beam profile, which means enhancement of the LPD. As indicators of LPD, the laser peak intensity increased and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) decreased as a function of NC. The peak intensity at -30 kPa increased 2.74, 3.22, and 3.64 fold at laser probe diameters of 20, 30, and 40 mm, respectively. In addition, sample temperature was measured with a thermal camera and increased 0.4 K at -30 kPa after 60 s of laser irradiation as a result of enhanced LPD. The CCLLP system effectively demonstrated enhancement of the LPD in tissue and potentially its clinical feasibility.

Lasers Med Sci 2010 Apr 15

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20393768

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Seeing the Light – The Truth about Soft Tissue Lasers and Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy.

Matthews DC

Although laser treatment has generated considerable interest among dentists and the public, there is no evidence that any laser system adds clinical value over and above scaling and root planing and conventional surgical treatment for periodontitis. Following a brief explanation of the mechanism behind soft tissue lasers, the evidence on the use of laser therapy in addition to traditional nonsurgical periodontal treatment in the management of periodontal diseases is reviewed.

J Can Dent Assoc 2010 Apr 76(2) 10702

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20388312

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Mitochondrial mechanisms of photobiomodulation in context of new data about multiple roles of ATP.

Karu T

Photomed Laser Surg 2010 Apr 28(2) 159-60

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20374017

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Use of laser technology in orthodontics: hard and soft tissue laser treatments.

Genovese, MD, Olivi, G

AIM: Modern technology has perfected a new instrument that has become almost indispensable in modern dentistry, in accordance with the philosophy of minimally invasive therapy: the laser. The aim of this work is to evaluate the effectiveness and efficacy of laser technology to solve mucogingival problems associated with orthodontic treatment. Some laser wavelengths work both on hard and soft tissues (2780 nm, 2940 nm), other lasers, such as the 810 nm diode, have a very good surgical and haemostatic action on soft tissues and an important analgesic and biostimulating effect that can help the healing of both TMJ painful symptoms as well as the pain following active orthodontic treatment. Several cases connected to orthodontic therapy are presented. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Different laser systems (diode laser at 810 nm; Er,Cr:YSGG laser at 2780 nm; Erbium:YAG laser at 2940 nm) were used, both for soft tissue surgery and enamel etching, and for biostimulating effect. These wavelengths were used with different parameters for each case, according to international current studies in view of minimally invasive therapy. RESULTS: The cases reported showed very quick and good healing of the laser treated tissues. These treatments, necessary for the orthodontic therapy or for its completion, become extremely simple, safe and rapid and the orthodontic specialist can perform them himself. CONCLUSION: The laser technique is very effective in many operative and surgical procedures during orthodontic therapy. Further studies are however necessary to set the treatment protocols in orthodontic biostimulation.

Eur J Paediatr Dent 2010 Mar 11(1) 44-8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20359282

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Oral mucositis. Review of literature.

Scardina, GA, Pisano, T, Messina, P

Department of Oral Sciences, University of Palermo, Italy. scardina@odonto.unipa.it

The standard treatment for malignant neoplasia of the cervicofacial area is surgery in association with radio- and/or chemotherapy. These therapies can cause local and systemic complications. Mucositis is the most common dose-correlated complication to the oral cavity. It is particularly difficult to treat in patients who are already physically and psychologically exhausted by the tumoral pathology. This study illustrates, through a review of the literature, the attack rate, the pathogenesis and the clinical course of the mucositis, as well as the correct dental approach and clinical-therapeutic management of these patients, with the aim of improving the quality of their lives.

N Y State Dent J 2010 Jan 76(1) 34-8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20359063

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Effect of near-infrared light-emitting diodes on nerve regeneration.

Ishiguro, M, Ikeda, K, Tomita, K

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, 920-8641, Japan.

BACKGROUND: Photobiomodulation by red to near-infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has been reported to accelerate wound healing, attenuate degeneration of an injured optic nerve, and promote tissue growth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of LEDs on nerve regeneration. A histological study as well as a measurement of antioxidation levels in the nerve regeneration chamber fluid was performed. METHODS: For the histological study, the bilateral sciatic nerves were transected, and the left proximal stump and the right distal stump were inserted into the opposite ends of a silicone chamber, leaving a 10-mm gap. Light from an LED device (660 nm, 7.5 mW/cm(2)) was irradiated for 1 h per day. At 3 weeks after surgery, regenerated tissue was fixed and examined by light microscopy. For the antioxidation assay of chamber fluid, the left sciatic nerve and a 2-mm piece of nerve from the proximal stump were transected and inserted into opposite sides of a silicone chamber leaving a 10-mm gap. LEDs were irradiated using the same parameters as those described in the histological study. At 1, 3, and 7 days after surgery, antioxidation of the chamber fluid was measured using an OXY absorbent test. RESULTS: Nerve regeneration was promoted in the LED group. Antioxidation of the chamber fluid significantly decreased from 3 days to 7 days in the control group. In the LED group, antioxidation levels did not decrease until 7 days. CONCLUSIONS: Chamber fluid is produced from nerve stumps after nerve injury. This fluid contains neurotrophic factors that may accelerate axonal growth. Red to near-infrared LEDs have been shown to promote mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. In this study, LED irradiation improved nerve regeneration and increased antioxidation levels in the chamber fluid. Therefore, we propose that antioxidation induced by LEDs may be conducive to nerve regeneration.

J Orthop Sci 2010 Mar 15(2) 233-9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20358337

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Effects of low-level light therapy on streptozotocin-induced diabetic kidney.

Lim J, Sanders RA, Snyder AC, Eells JT, Henshel DS, Watkins JB 3rd

School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, 1315 East Tenth Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

Hyperglycemia causes oxidative damage in tissues prone to complications in diabetes. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) in the red to near infrared range (630-1000nm) has been shown to accelerate diabetic wound healing. To test the hypothesis that LLLT would attenuate oxidative renal damage in Type I diabetic rats, male Wistar rats were made diabetic with streptozotocin (50mg/kg, ip), and then exposed to 670nm light at a dose of 9J/cm(2) once per day for 14weeks. The activity and expression of catalase and the activity of Na K-ATPase increased in kidneys of light-treated diabetic rats, whereas the activity and expression of glutathione peroxidase and the expression of Na K-ATPase were unchanged. LLLT lowered the values of serum BUN, serum creatinine, and BUN/creatinine ratio. In addition, LLLT augmented the activity and expression of cytochrome c oxidase, a primary photoacceptor molecule in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and reduced the formation of the DNA adduct 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine in kidney. LLLT improved renal function and antioxidant defense capabilities in the kidney of Type I diabetic rats. Thus, 670nm LLLT may be broadly applicable to the amelioration of renal complications induced by diabetes that disrupt antioxidant defense mechanisms.

J Photochem Photobiol B 2010 May 3 99(2) 105-10

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20356759

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The influence of baseline characteristics on response to a laser acupuncture intervention: an exploratory analysis.

Glazov G

School of Primary, Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia, 328 Stirling Hwy Claremont WA 6010, Australia. glazog01@student.uwa.edu.au

OBJECTIVES: In clinical practice it is known that subjects vary in their response to acupuncture, but there is little data on what predicts the outcome. The aim of this study was to identify such predictors. METHOD: A secondary analysis was performed on data from 100 participants in a trial of laser and sham laser acupuncture for chronic non-specific low back pain. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify which baseline characteristics predicted pain change in the immediate, short and intermediate term. An analysis of covariance was performed based on these results to re-examine the primary result of the trial. RESULTS: Strong predictors of poor response were receipt of disability support pension, headache, the regular use of analgesics or previous failed back surgery. Higher pain scores or exacerbation of pain at baseline predicted a greater proportionate pain relief after the intervention. Adjusted analysis suggested a clinically important effect of laser compared to sham (p<0.05), at short term follow-up only. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggest which characteristics of patients with chronic low back pain are more likely to respond to laser acupuncture treatment, but require replication in other studies. The findings may not apply in other acupuncture interventions and treatment of different conditions. They may also be used to set selection criteria for future studies, and to aid interpreting the effect of baseline imbalances on trial results.

Acupunct Med 2010 Mar 28(1) 6-11

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20351369

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The effects of low-level diode laser treatment and dental pulp-capping materials on the proliferation of L-929 fibroblasts.

Ferriello V, Faria MR, Cavalcanti BN

Biodentistry Postgraduate Program, Ibirapuera University, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been reported to improve tissue healing and might therefore be useful in dental pulp capping after trauma. We evaluated the effects of a low-level diode laser (lambda = 680 nm) and dental pulp-capping substances on cell proliferation. Calcium hydroxide and adhesive resin were applied as conditioned media to cultures. Half of the samples received irradiation with the diode laser at a fluence of 4 J/cm(2) for 60 s. Using a hemocytometer, cells were counted at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days, and the data were analyzed by ANOVA. All cultures exhibited continuous growth, except those treated with adhesive resin. As compared to the other two groups, cell proliferation was significantly lower in cultures treated with adhesive resin; it was also significantly lower in cultures treated with calcium hydroxide, as compared to the control group. When combined with dental pulp-capping materials, LLLT had no effect on L-929 cell proliferation.

J Oral Sci 2010 52(1) 33-8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20339230

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LPLI inhibits apoptosis upstream of Bax translocation via a GSK-3beta-inactivation mechanism.

Zhang L, Zhang Y, Xing D

MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science & Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.

Low-power laser irradiation (LPLI), a non-damage physical therapy, which has been used clinically for decades of years, is shown to promote cell proliferation and prevent apoptosis. However, the underlying mechanisms that LPLI prevents cell apoptosis remain undefined. In this study, based on real-time single-cell analysis, we demonstrated for the first time that LPLI inhibits staurosporine (STS)-induced cell apoptosis by inactivating the GSK-3beta/Bax pathway. LPLI could inhibit the activation of GSK-3beta, Bax, and caspase-3 induced by STS. In the searching for the mechanism, we found that, LPLI can activate Akt, which was consistence with our former research, even in the presence of STS. In this anti-apoptotic process, the interaction between Akt and GSK-3beta increased gradually, indicating Akt interacts with and inactivates GSK-3beta directly. Conversely, LPLI decreased the interaction between GSK-3beta and Bax, with the suppression of Bax translocation to mitochondria, suggesting LPLI inhibits Bax translocation through inactivating GSK-3beta. These results were further confirmed by the experiments of co-immunoprecipitation. Wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3′-OH kinase (PI3K), potently suppressed the activation of Akt and subsequent anti-apoptotic processes induced by LPLI. Taken together, we conclude that LPLI protects against STS-induced apoptosis upstream of Bax translocation via the PI3K/Akt/GSK-3beta pathway. These findings raise the possibility of LPLI as a promising therapy for neuron-degeneration disease induced by GSK-3beta.

J Cell Physiol 2010 Jul 224(1) 218-28

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20333643

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The light revival: does phototherapy promote wound healing? A review.

Whinfield AL, Aitkenhead I

Department of General Practice and Primary Care, Kings College London School of Medicine, 5 Lambeth Walk, London, UK. annewhin@googlemail.com

BACKGROUND: Throughout history, light has been recognised as a potential source of healing. The introduction of lasers made it possible to modify and control light for optimum therapeutic use. AIM: This paper reviews recent clinical trials that test phototherapy on human models in order to assess the value of phototherapy in routine wound care. METHOD: A literature search was undertaken using a variety of sources including online databases. RESULTS: The results of numerous in vitro and animal investigations suggest that phototherapy may stimulate cell activity and promote tissue repair. Reports of human clinical trials are relatively few. There is inconsistency of selected treatment parameters amongst studies testing the effect of phototherapy on wound healing. Clinical trials using human models do not provide sufficient evidence to establish the usefulness of phototherapy as an effective tool in wound care regimes. CONCLUSION: Further well designed research trials are required to determine the true value of phototherapy in routine wound care.

Foot (Edinb) 2009 Jun 19(2) 117-24

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20307462

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Laser acupuncture for myofascial pain of the masticatory muscles. A controlled pilot study.

Katsoulis J, Ausfeld-Hafter B, Windecker-Getaz I, Katsoulis K, Blagojevic N, Mericske-Stern R

Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. joannis.katsoulis@zmk.unibe.ch

PURPOSE: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effectiveness of laser acupuncture within the scope of a pilot study. METHODS: 108 adult patients were examined and of those eleven patients were included in the prospective pilot study. These patients took part voluntarily and were diagnosed with tendomyopathy of the masticatory musculature with maximum face and jaw pain on a visual analogous scale VAS > or = 30 in the last 14 days. Four patients wanted to be sure not to be assigned to the placebo group and were treated with the laser (group1, verum open, N = 4). The remaining seven were split by means of block randomisation into groups 2 (verum blind, N = 3) and 3 (placebo blind, N = 4). Two local points (ST 6, SI 18) and two distant points (SI 3, LI 4) on both sides of the body were stimulated (groups 1 and 2) or placebo-stimulated (group 3) with the LASERneedle machine for 15 minutes twice a week for three weeks (6 sessions). After three months a clinical follow-up was carried out, which included a standardised questionnaire as to the maximum pain intensity (VAS and verbal scale) and on the need for further treatment. A pain reduction (VAS) of about 50% was evaluated as a success. RESULTS: Pain decreased on average 40 VAS points for ten of eleven patients. The pain reduction on the VAS in group 1 (verum open) was more than 50% for all four patients, in group 3 (placebo blind) for three of four patients, and in group 2 (verum blind) all remained under 50%. The evaluation on the verbal scale showed a pain reduction from moderate to very strong pains initially, to moderate, light and no pain after three months for all three groups. DISCUSSION: The range of application of the laser was limited by the narrow inclusion criteria of the pilot study. The laser acupuncture (open and blinded) did not show a negative effect in any group. The pain reduction was strongest with the blinded patients of the placebo group. The worst performance was in the blinded group with laser acupuncture. CONCLUSION: Due to the low number of participants, no clear conclusion can be drawn. Laser needle acupuncture may be a treatment option for patients with an interest in a noninvasive, complementary therapy. But clarification and treatment planning on an individual basis must take place first.

Schweiz Monatsschr Zahnmed 2010 120(3) 213-25

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20238281

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Laser biomodulation on L 929 cell culture.

Pires-Oliveira DA, Oliveira RF, Machado AH, Zangaro RA, Pacheco-Soares C

Universidade Camilo Castelo Branca, Unicastelo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of photobiomodulation using a 904-nm diode laser at two energy densities (6 J/cm(2) and 50 mJ/cm(2)) on L929 fibroblast cells. BACKGROUND: Low-power laser irradiation (LPLI) is a non-pharmacological resource that induces important in vitro photobiomodulation on cell cultures and tissues. METHODS: Irradiation was performed for three days at 24-h intervals. After each interval, the cells were stained with MitoTracker Orange and DioC6 dyes to assess the photobiomodulatory effects of irradiation on mitochondrial activity and changes in the endoplasmic reticulum. The MTT assay [3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2.5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide] was used to evaluate cell proliferation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The fluorescence microscopy assessment of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in cells irradiated with 6 J/cm(2) and 50 mJ/cm(2) demonstrated intense mitochondrial activity, which was confirmed by DioC6 staining. Reticular activity was observed stemming from increased protein synthesis. Photobiomodulation with 50 mJ/cm(2) was slightly higher than with 6 J/cm(2), as demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy results. Photobiomodulation was also time-dependent, with better results 72-h after irradiation.

Photomed Laser Surg 2010 Apr 28(2) 167-71

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20232997

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Phototherapy: the challenge to accurately measure irradiance.

Vreman HJ

Indian Pediatr 2010 Feb 7 47(2) 127-8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20228426

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Effects of CO2 laser irradiation of the gingiva during tooth movement.

Seiryu, M, Deguchi, T, Fujiyama, K, Sakai, Y, Daimaruya, T, Takano-Yamamoto, T

Division of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Dentistry, 4-1, Seiryomachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.

Patients often feel pain or discomfort in response to orthodontic force. It was hypothesized that CO(2) laser irradiation may reduce the early responses to nociceptive stimuli during tooth movement. The distribution of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-IR) neurons in the medullary dorsal horn of rats was evaluated. Two hrs after tooth movement, Fos-IR neurons in the ipsilateral part of the medullary dorsal horn increased significantly. CO(2) laser irradiation to the gingiva just after tooth movement caused a significant decrease of Fos-IR neurons. PGP 9.5- and CGRP-positive nerve fibers were observed in the PDL of all study groups. The maximum temperature below the mucosa during CO(2) laser irradiation was less than 40 degrees C. It was suggested that CO(2) laser irradiation reduced the early responses to nociceptive stimuli during tooth movement and might not have adverse effects on periodontal tissue.

J Dent Res 2010 May 89(5) 537-42

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20228277

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Posted in Research |

What makes THOR probes special (why we test LEDs)

Posted on 15 April 2010 by James Carroll

Posted in Special Feature, Video of the Week |

LLLT Literature Watch for January 2010

Posted on 18 January 2010 by James Carroll

Some very interesting papers in this edition including a large back pain RCT of 546 patients, LLLT for major depression and anxiety from Harvard Medical School, Allergic Rhinitis and another from Harvard on mechanism and dose.

Acute Low Back Pain with Radiculopathy: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Konstantinovic LM, Kanjuh ZM, Milovanovic AN, Cutovic MR, Djurovic AG, Savic VG, Dragin AS, Milovanovic ND

1 Clinic for Rehabilitation, Medical School , Belgrade, Serbia.

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with acute low back pain (LBP) with radiculopathy. Background Data: Acute LBP with radiculopathy is associated with pain and disability and the important pathogenic role of inflammation. LLLT has shown significant anti-inflammatory effects in many studies. Materials and Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 546 patients. Group A (182 patients) was treated with nimesulide 200 mg/day and additionally with active LLLT; group B (182 patients) was treated only with nimesulide; and group C (182 patients) was treated with nimesulide and placebo LLLT. LLLT was applied behind the involved spine segment using a stationary skin-contact method. Patients were treated 5 times weekly, for a total of 15 treatments, with the following parameters: wavelength 904 nm; frequency 5000 Hz; 100-mW average diode power; power density of 20 mW/cm(2) and dose of 3 J/cm(2); treatment time 150 sec at whole doses of 12 J/cm(2). The outcomes were pain intensity measured with a visual analog scale (VAS); lumbar movement, with a modified Schober test; pain disability, with Oswestry disability score; and quality of life, with a 12-item short-form health survey questionnaire (SF-12). Subjects were evaluated before and after treatment. Statistical analyses were done with SPSS 11.5. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in all outcomes measured (p < 0.001), but were larger in group A than in B (p < 0.0005) and C (p < 0.0005). The results in group C were better than in group B (p < 0.0005). Conclusions: The results of this study show better improvement in acute LBP treated with LLLT used as additional therapy.

Photomed Laser Surg 2009 Dec 9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20001318

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Psychological benefits 2 and 4 weeks after a single treatment with near infrared light to the forehead: a pilot study of 10 patients with major depression and anxiety.

Schiffer F, Johnston AL, Ravichandran C, Polcari A, Teicher MH, Webb RH, Hamblin MR

The Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and the Developmental Biopsychiatry Research Program, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street Belmont, MA 02478 USA. fschiffer@mclean.harvard.edu.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Many studies have reported beneficial effects from the application of near-infrared (NIR) light photobiomodulation (PBM) to the body, and one group has reported beneficial effects applying it to the brain in stroke patients. We have reported that the measurement of a patient’s left and right hemispheric emotional valence (HEV) may clarify data and guide lateralized treatments. We sought to test whether a NIR treatment could 1. improve the psychological status of patients, 2. show a relationship between immediate psychological improvements when HEV was taken into account, and 3. show an increase in frontal pole regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF), and 4. be applied without side effects. METHODS: We gave 10 patients, (5 M/5 F) with major depression, including 9 with anxiety, 7 with a past history of substance abuse (6 with an opiate abuse and 1 with an alcohol abuse history), and 3 with post traumatic stress disorder, a baseline standard diagnostic interview, a Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), a Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and a Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS). We then gave four 4-minute treatments in a random order: NIR to left forehead at F3, to right forehead at F4, and placebo treatments (light off) at the same sites. Immediately following each treatment we repeated the PANAS, and at 2-weeks and at 4-weeks post treatment we repeated all 3 rating scales. During all treatments we recorded total hemoglobin (cHb), as a measure of rCBF with a commercial NIR spectroscopy device over the left and the right frontal poles of the brain. RESULTS: At 2-weeks post treatment 6 of 10 patients had a remission (a score

Behav Brain Funct 2009 5 46

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19995444

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Biphasic dose response in low level light therapy.

Huang YY, Chen AC, Carroll JD, Hamblin MR

Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Aesthetic and Plastic Center of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, P.R. China.

The use of low levels of visible or near infrared light for reducing pain, inflammation and edema, promoting healing of wounds, deeper tissues and nerves, and preventing cell death and tissue damage has been known for over forty years since the invention of lasers. Despite many reports of positive findings from experiments conducted in vitro, in animal models and in randomized controlled clinical trials, LLLT remains controversial in mainstream medicine. The biochemical mechanisms underlying the positive effects are incompletely understood, and the complexity of rationally choosing amongst a large number of illumination parameters such as wavelength, fluence, power density, pulse structure and treatment timing has led to the publication of a number of negative studies as well as many positive ones. A biphasic dose response has been frequently observed where low levels of light have a much better effect on stimulating and repairing tissues than higher levels of light. The so-called Arndt-Schulz curve is frequently used to describe this biphasic dose response. This review will cover the molecular and cellular mechanisms in LLLT, and describe some of our recent results in vitro and in vivo that provide scientific explanations for this biphasic dose response.

Dose Response 2009 7(4) 358-83

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Effect of LED Phototherapy of Three Distinct Wavelengths on Fibroblasts on Wound Healing: A Histological Study in a Rodent Model.

de Sousa AP, Santos JN, Dos Reis JA, Ramos TA, de Souza J, Cangussu MC, Pinheiro AL

1 Laser Center, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia , Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.

Abstract Aim: The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate histologically fibroblastic proliferation on dorsal cutaneous wounds in a rodent model treated or not with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of three wavelengths. Background: Fibroblasts secrete substances essential for wound healing. There are few reports of LED phototherapy on fibroblast proliferation, mainly in vivo. Animals and Methods: Following approval by the Animal Experimentation Committee of the School of Dentistry of the Federal University of Bahia, we obtained 16 young adult male Wistar rats weighing between 200 and 250 g. Under general anesthesia, one excisional wound was created on the dorsum of each animal; they were then randomly distributed into four groups of four animals each: G0, untreated control; G1, red LED (700 nm +/- 20 nm, 15 mW, 10 J/cm(2)); G2, green LED (530 nm +/- 20 nm, 8 mW, 10 J/cm(2)); and G3, blue LED (460 nm +/- 20 nm, 22 mW, 10 J/cm(2)). The irradiation started immediately after surgery and was repeated every other day for 7 days. Animals were killed 8 days after surgery. The specimens were removed, routinely processed to wax, cut, and stained with hematoxylin/eosin (HE). Fibroblasts were scored by measuring the percentage of these cells occupying the area corresponding to wound healing on stained sections. Results: The quantitative results showed that red LED (700 +/- 20 nm) and green LED (530 +/- 20 nm) showed a significant increase in fibroblast numbers (p < 0.01 and p = 0.02) when compared with the control group. Conclusion: The use of green and red LED light is effective in increasing fibroblastic proliferation on rodents.

Photomed Laser Surg 2009 Dec 9

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Effect of low-level laser therapy (GaAs 904 nm) in skeletal muscle fatigue and biochemical markers of muscle damage in rats.

Leal Junior EC, Lopes-Martins RA, de Almeida P, Ramos L, Iversen VV, Bjordal JM

Section for Physiotherapy Science, Department of Public Health and Primary Health Care, University of Bergen (UiB), Kalfarveien 31, 5020, Bergen, Norway, ernesto.leal.junior@gmail.com.

We wanted to test if pre-exercise muscle irradiation with 904 nm laser affects the development of fatigue, blood lactate levels and creatine kinase (CK) activity in a rat model with tetanic contractions. Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups receiving either one of four different laser doses (0.1, 0.3, 1.0 and 3.0 J) or a no-treatment control group. Laser irradiation was performed immediately before the first contraction for treated groups. Electrical stimulation was used to induce six tetanic tibial anterior muscle contractions with 10 min intervals between them. Contractions were stopped when the muscle force fell to 50% of the peak value for each contraction; blood samples were taken before the first and immediately after the sixth contraction. The relative peak forces for the sixth contraction were significantly better (P < 0.05) in the two laser groups irradiated with highest doses [151.27% (SD +/- 18.82) for 1.0 J, 144.84% (SD +/- 34.47) for 3.0 J and 82.25% (SD +/- 11.69) for the control group]. Similar significant (P < 0.05) increases in mean performed work during the sixth contraction for the 1.0 and 3.0 J groups were also observed. Blood lactate levels were significantly lower (P < 0.05) than the control group in all irradiated groups. All irradiated groups except the 3.0 J group had significantly lower post-exercise CK activity than the control group. We conclude that pre-exercise irradiation with a laser dose of 1.0 J and 904 nm wavelength significantly delays muscle fatigue and decreases post-exercise blood lactate and CK in this rat model.

Eur J Appl Physiol 2009 Dec 19

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Endonasal phototherapy with Rhinolight for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Brehmer D

University of Witten/Herdecke, Faculty of Medicine, Friedrichstrasse 3/4, 37073 Goettingen, Germany. dr.d.brehmer@t-online.de

Allergic rhinitis, although not life threatening, significantly affects the quality of the patient’s daily life. The three major steps in the treatment of the condition are avoidance of allergens, treatment of symptoms (in particular, antihistaminics and topical nasal corticosteroids) and specific immunotherapy. Avoidance of the allergen is usually not possible and symptom relief is often limited, despite the availability of a number of pharmacological options. Specific immunotherapy demands a high level of cooperation on the part of the patient for at least 3 years. Endonasal phototherapy with the Rhinolight device (Rhinolight Ltd, Szeged, Hungary) for the treatment of immunoglobulin E-mediated allergic rhinitis is a new option that utilizes the immunosuppressive effects of UV radiation. The method directs a combination of UV-B (5%), UV-A (25%) and visible light (70%) into the nasal cavity, and its effectiveness has been demonstrated in one double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The results of additional studies have been presented at various medical conferences and in abstracts. Reports in the literature confirm that phototherapy is a well-established and successful treatment of atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases.

Expert Rev Med Devices 2010 Jan 7(1) 21-6

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Laser acupuncture does not improve menopausal symptoms.

O’Brien KA, Varigos E, Black C, Komesaroff PA

From the 1Victoria University Faculty of Health, Engineering, and Science, Melbourne, Australia; 2Monash University Department of Medicine, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; 3Monash Surgical Private Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; and 4The Menopause and Midlife Women’s Clinic, The Oxford Clinic, Christchurch, New Zealand.

OBJECTIVE:: Acupuncture is commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms and other gynecological conditions. Laser acupuncture, more accurately named “laser acupoint stimulation,” has the advantages of being noninvasive, reproducible, and convenient. A few studies of conventional acupuncture have suggested a beneficial effect in treating menopausal symptoms. This study sought to investigate the effectiveness of laser acupoint stimulation in relieving symptoms associated with menopause. METHODS:: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was conducted in 40 women experiencing active symptoms of menopause. Outcome variables were numbers of diurnal and nocturnal flushes and symptom score, determined using a previously validated scale. A laser acupoint stimulation device was altered to produce identical flashing lights whether or not the laser was operating to allow for a placebo (“laser off”) control. Participants received either active or placebo treatment on a fortnightly basis for 12 weeks. The acupoint selection in both groups was individualized to each participant, selected from a set of 10 acupoints. RESULTS:: There were no significant differences between the active and placebo treatment groups in numbers of diurnal or nocturnal flushes or in nonflushing symptom scores. CONCLUSIONS:: Laser acupoint stimulation chosen from a fixed set of acupoints is no more efficacious than manual stimulation with an inert laser probe in altering menopausal symptoms.

Menopause 2010 Jan 8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20065886

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Effects of low power laser irradiation on bone healing in animals: a meta-analysis.

Bashardoust Tajali S, Macdermid JC, Houghton P, Grewal R

ABSTRACT: Purpose: The meta-analysis was performed to identify animal research defining the effects of low power laser irradiation on biomechanical indicators of bone regeneration and the impact of dosage. Methods: We searched five electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Randomised Clinical Trials) for studies in the area of laser and bone healing published from 1966 to October 2008. Included studies had to investigate fracture healing in any animal model, using any type of low power laser irradiation, and use at least one quantitative biomechanical measures of bone strength. There were 880 abstracts related to the laser irradiation and bone issues (healing, surgery and assessment). Five studies met our inclusion criteria and were critically appraised by two raters independently using a structured tool designed for rating the quality of animal research studies. After full text review, two articles were deemed ineligible for meta-analysis because of the type of injury method and biomechanical variables used, leaving three studies for meta-analysis. Maximum bone tolerance force before the point of bone fracture during the biomechanical test, 4 weeks after bone deficiency was our main biomechanical bone properties for the Meta analysis. Results: Studies indicate that low power laser irradiation can enhance biomechanical properties of bone during fracture healing in animal models. Maximum bone tolerance was statistically improved following low level laser irradiation (average random effect size 0.726, 95% CI 0.08 – 1.37, p 0.028). While conclusions are limited by the low number of studies, there is concordance across limited evidence that laser improves the strength of bone tissue during the healing process in animal models.

J Orthop Surg Res 2010 Jan 4 5(1) 1

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20047683

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[Reaction on ‘Less need for insulin, a surprising effect of phototherapy in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus’]

Meesters Y

Tijdschr Psychiatr 2009 51(12) 975-7

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20047170

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Histological evaluation of the effect of low-level laser on distraction osteogenesis in rabbit mandibles.

Kreisner PE, Blaya D, Gaiao L, Maciel-Santos ME, Etges A, Santana-Filho M, de Oliveira MG

Av. Cel. Lucas de Oliveira, 1841/203, Petropolis CEP: 90460-001 – Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil, mogerhardt@yahoo.com.br.

Objectives: This study evaluated the action of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on the percentage of newly formed bone in rabbit mandibles that underwent distraction osteogenesis (DO). Study design: Ten rabbits underwent bone lengthening according to the following protocol: Latency – 3 days; Activation – 7 days 0.7 mm/d; and Consolidation – 10 days. The control group was composed of 4 rabbits. The experimental group, composed of 6 rabbits, received infrared GaAlAs LLLT (wavelength=830 nm, 40 mW) according to the following protocol: point dose of 10 J/cm(2) applied directly on the bone site that underwent DO during bone consolidation at 48-hour intervals. Results: The percentage of newly formed bone was greater in the LLLT group (57.89%) than in the control group (46.75%) (p=0.006). Conclusion: The results suggest that LLLT had a positive effect on the percentage of newly formed bone. Better-quality bone sites may allow early removal of the osteogenic distractors, thus shortening total treatment time.

Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal 2009 Dec 29

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=20038884

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Conservative management of posterior interosseous neuropathy in an elite baseball pitcher’s return to play: a case report and review of the literature.

Robb A, Sajko S

Division of Graduate Studies, Sports Sciences, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Tel: 416.482.2340. Email: arobb@cmcc.ca.

This report documents retrospectively a case of Posterior Interosseous Neuropathy (PIN) occurring in an elite baseball pitcher experiencing a deep ache in the radial aspect of the forearm and altered sensation in the dorsum of the hand on the throwing arm during his pitching motion. The initial clinical goal was to control for inflammation to the nerve and muscle with active rest, microcurrent therapy, low-level laser therapy, and cessation of throwing. Minimizing mechanosensitivity at the common extensor region of the right elbow and PIN, was achieved by employing the use of myofascial release and augmented soft tissue mobilization techniques. Neurodynamic mobilization technique was also administered to improve neural function. Implementation of a sport specific protocol for the purposes of maintaining throwing mechanics and overall conditioning was utilized. Successful resolution of symptomatology and return to pre-injury status was achieved in 5 weeks. A review of literature and an evidence-based discussion for the differential diagnoses, clinical examination, diagnosis, management and rehabilitation of PIN is presented.

J Can Chiropr Assoc 2009 Dec 53(4) 300-10

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The effects of helium-neon light therapy on healing of partial osteotomy of the tibia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Abdi S, Bayat M, Javadieh F, Mohsenifar Z, Rezaie F, Bayat M

Medical Faculty, Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Department of Pathology, Ayatollah Taleghani Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran.

OBJECTIVE: The effect of light therapy (LT) on surgically created partial osteotomy in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats was examined. BACKGROUND DATA: LT has been shown to enhance bone repair in healthy human and animal models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty male rats were divided into groups 1 to 5. Diabetes was induced in rats of groups 1, 2, and 3 using an intraperitoneal injection of STZ. All diabetic rats were maintained for 30 days after STZ injection. Under general anesthesia and sterile conditions, a partial transversal standardized osteotomy was made in the mid-portion of the right tibia. The defects in groups 2, 3, and 5 were treated using a helium-neon (He-Ne) laser (632.8 nm, 10 mW, circular beam shape). Groups 1 and 4 were diabetic placebo and normal placebo groups, respectively. A dose of 369.4 J/cm2 for groups 2 and 5 and a dose of 66.8 J/cm2 for group 3 were applied three times a week. Six weeks after surgery, the right tibia was collected. The specimen was subjected to a three-point bending test. RESULTS: LT with 369.4 J/cm2 energy density resulted in significantly greater bending stiffness in group 5 (41.8+/-5.2) than in groups 1 (18.5+/-4.1), 2 (17.7+/-1.6), and 3 (11.5+/-4) (least significant difference (LSD) test, p<0.01, p<0.001, and p<0.001, respectively). LT with 369.4 J/cm2 energy density resulted in a significantly higher stress load in group 5 (10+/-0.4) than in groups 1 (4.9+/-1.5), 2 (5.7+/-0.52), and 3 (3.9+/-1.1) (LSD test, p<0.01, p<0.01, p<0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: LT with a He-Ne laser in STZ-induced diabetic rats did not enhance bone repair of a partial transversal standardized osteotomy.

Photomed Laser Surg 2009 Dec 27(6) 907-12

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Choice of treatment modalities was not influenced by pain, severity or co-morbidity in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Jamtvedt G, Dahm KT, Holm I, Odegaard-Jensen J, Flottorp S

Norwegian Knowledge Centre for the Health Services, Oslo, and Centre for Evidence-Based Practice, University College Bergen, Bergen, Norway.

Background and Purpose. Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) are commonly treated by physiotherapists in primary care. The physiotherapists use different treatment modalities. In a previous study, we identified variation in the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), low level laser or acupuncture, massage and weight reduction advice for patients with knee OA. The purpose of this study was to examine factors that might explain variation in treatment modalities for patients with knee OA. Methods. Practising physiotherapists prospectively collected data for one patient with knee osteoarthritis each through 12 treatment sessions.We chose to examine factors that might explain variation in the choice of treatment modalities supported by high or moderate quality evidence, and modalities which were frequently used but which were not supported by evidence from systematic reviews. Experienced clinicians proposed factors that they thought might explain the variation in the choice of these specific treatments. We used these factors in explanatory analyses. Results. Using TENS, low level laser or acupuncture was significantly associated with having searched databases to help answer clinical questions in the last six months (odds ratio [OR] = 1.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-3.42). Not having Internet access at work and using more than four treatment modalities were significant determinants for giving massage (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.19-0.68 and OR = 8.92, 95% CI = 4.37-18.21, respectively). Being a female therapist significantly increased the odds for providing weight reduction advice (OR = 3.60, 95% CI = 1.12-11.57). No patient characteristics, such as age, pain or co-morbidity, were significantly associated with variation in practice. Conclusions. Factors related to patient characteristics, such as pain severity and co-morbidity, did not seem to explain variation in treatment modalities for patients with knee OA. Variation was associated with the following factors: physiotherapists having Internet access at work, physiotherapists having searched databases for the last six months and the gender of the therapist. There is a need for more studies of determinants for physiotherapy practice. Copyright (c) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Physiother Res Int 2009 Dec 23

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Low-level laser therapy as a non-invasive approach for body contouring: a randomized, controlled study.

Jackson RF, Dedo DD, Roche GC, Turok DI, Maloney RJ

River View Surgery Center, Marion, Indiana 46952, USA.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Transmission electron microscopic images have demonstrated the formation of transitory pores in adipocyte cell membranes followed by the collapse of adipose cells subsequent to laser irradiation of 635 nm. The objective is to evaluate the application of a 635 nm and 17.5 mW exit power per multiple diode laser for the application of non-invasive body contouring of the waist, hips, and thighs. STUDY DESIGN/PATIENTS AND METHODS: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a 2-week non-invasive laser treatment conducted from May 2007 to June 2008 across multiple-private practice sites in the United States of America. Sixty-seven volunteers between the ages of 18-65 with a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 30 kg/m(2) and who satisfied the set inclusion criteria participated. Eight of the 67 subjects did not have circumference measurements recorded at the 2-week post-procedure measurement point. Participants were randomly assigned to receive low-level laser treatments or a matching sham treatment three times per week for 2 weeks. Reduction in the total combined inches of circumference measurements of the waist, hip and bilateral thighs from baseline to the completion of the 2-week procedure administration phase was assessed. RESULTS: Participants in the treatment group demonstrated an overall reduction in total circumference across all three sites of -3.51 in. (P < 0.001) compared with control subjects who revealed a -0.684 reduction (P < 0.071745). Test group participants demonstrated a reduction of -0.98 in. (P < 0.0001) across the waist, -1.05 in. (P < 0.01) across the hip, and -0.85 in. (P < 0.01) and -0.65 in. (P < 0.01) across the right and left thighs from baseline to 2 weeks (end of treatment). At 2 weeks post-procedure, test group subjects demonstrated a gain of 0.31 total inches collectively across all three sites. CONCLUSION: These data suggest that low-level laser therapy can reduce overall circumference measurements of specifically treated regions.

Lasers Surg Med 2009 Dec 41(10) 799-809

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A multimodal approach to management of suspected neuropathic pain in a prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus).

Shaver SL, Robinson NG, Wright BD, Kratz GE, Johnston MS

Professional Veterinary Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 300 W Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1678, USA.

An adult male prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus) was presented for evaluation and treatment of self-inflicted wounds along the right proximal patagium. The bird had started self-traumatizing approximately 1 month after fracturing the right metacarpus, although the fracture had stabilized, surface wounds had healed completely, and treatment with a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug had been administered. The bird was treated with gabapentin (11 mg/kg p.o. q12h), ketamine (0.5 mg/kg i.m. q24h), and low level laser therapy (LLLT) (<5 mW, 630-680 nm, 5-second application per site) for 3 weeks, but, despite initial improvement, new self-inflicted wounds appeared at the same site. Approximately 1.5 months later, a radial and medianoulnar nerve block was performed by using bupivacaine (2 mg/kg) and medetomidine (0.5 microg/kg). In addition, the dosing interval of ketamine was increased to q12h, and the dose of gabapentin was increased 7.5-fold. A higher energy and wavelength of LLLT (1040 mW, 830 nm, 2 J/cm2) was applied once to the injured region and fracture site, then the original LLLT protocol was applied once daily. After 2.5 months, the wounds healed completely and no further mutilation took place. Once deemed ready for release, the falcon was returned to the wild after 181 days in captivity. This is the first reported application of successful multimodal analgesia in a raptor with uncontrolled neuropathic pain.

J Avian Med Surg 2009 Sep 23(3) 209-13

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19999765

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Laser Photobiomodulation of Wound Healing: A Review of Experimental Studies in Mouse and Rat Animal Models.

Peplow PV, Chung TY, Baxter GD

1 Department of Anatomy & Structural Biology, University of Otago , Dunedin, New Zealand .

Abstract This investigation reviewed experimental studies of laser irradiation of wound healing in mice and rats published from 2003 to August 2008, respectively, to assess putative stimulatory effects of this treatment. Animal models, including rodents, attempt to reflect human wound healing and associated problems such as dehiscence, ischemia, ulceration, infection, and scarring. They have played a key role in furthering understanding of underlying mechanisms involved in impaired wound healing, and in testing new therapeutic strategies including laser irradiation. Original research papers investigating effects of laser or monochromatic light therapy on wound healing in mice and rats and published from January 2003 to August 2008 were retrieved from library sources, PubMed and Medline databases, reference lists from retrieved papers, and hand searches of relevant journals. Papers were selected for this review with regard to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies were critically reviewed in terms of study design, methodology, and appropriateness of laser irradiation parameters. The literature search identified eight studies in mice and 39 in rats. A variety of wound models were investigated, including acute-wound, impaired-healing, and chronic-wound models. Considerable variation was observed in research design, methodology, and irradiation parameters employed, limiting comparison of research findings between studies. Inadequate reporting of key experimental details, or errors in specification and/or calculation of key irradiation parameters was also found. Evidence from the studies reviewed suggested that use of red or infrared wavelength at a range of dosage parameters (median 4.2 Jcm(-2)) results in significant benefits in measured parameters of wound healing. Interestingly, coherence does not seem essential to the photobiomodulatory effects of ‘laser’ phototherapy. Studies reviewed consistently demonstrated the ability of laser or monochromatic light to photobiomodulate wound healing processes in experimental wounds in rats and mice, and strongly support the case for further controlled research in humans.

Photomed Laser Surg 2009 Dec 8

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Physiotherapy treatments for breast cancer-related lymphedema: a literature review.

Leal NF, Carrara HH, Vieira KF, Ferreira CH

Universidade de Sao Paulo, Brazil. nanda.taz@bol.com.br

Breast cancer is the second most frequent cancer among women. Surgery is part of the therapeutic process to prevent metastases, but it can also cause some complications, including lymphedema. Physiotherapy contributes to its treatment, using different techniques that have been developed over the years. This systematic literature review aims to present physiotherapy modalities applied for lymphedema therapy. The literature review was conducted using textbooks and Lilacs, Pubmed and Scielo databases, from 1951 to 2009. Physiotherapy resources used for lymphedema treatment include complex decongestive therapy (CDT), pneumatic compression (PC), high voltage electrical stimulation (HVES) and laser therapy. The analyzed literature shows that better results are obtained with combined techniques. CDT is the most used protocol, and its association with PC has demonstrated efficacy. The new techniques HVES and laser present satisfactory results.

Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2009 Sep-Oct 17(5) 730-6

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Low level laser therapy does not modulate the outcomes of a highly bioactive glass-ceramic (Biosilicate((R))) on bone consolidation in rats.

Oliveira P, Ribeiro DA, Pipi EF, Driusso P, Parizotto NA, Renno AC

Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luis (SP-310), Km 235, Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil.

The main purpose of the present work was to evaluate if low level laser therapy (LLLT) can improve the effects of novel fully-crystallized glass-ceramic (Biosilicate((R))) on bone consolidation in tibial defects of rats. Forty male Wistar rats with tibial bone defects were used. Animals were divided into four groups: group bone defect control (CG); group bone defect filled with Biosilicate((R)) (BG); group bone defect filled with Biosilicate((R)), irradiated with LLLT, at 60 J cm(-2) (BG 60) and group bone defect filled with Biosilicate((R)), irradiated with LLLT, at 120 J cm(-2) (BG 120). A low-energy GaAlAs 830 nm, CW, 0.6 mm beam diameter, 100 W cm(-2), 60 and 120 J cm(-)(2) was used in this study. Laser irradiation was initiated immediately after the surgery procedure and it was performed every 48 h for 14 days. Fourteen days post-surgery, the three-point bending test revealed that the structural stiffness of the groups CG and BG was higher than the values of the groups BG60 and BG120. Morphometric analysis revealed no differences between the control group and the Biosilcate((R)) group. Interestingly, the groups treated with Biosilicate((R)) and laser (BG 60 and BG120) showed statistically significant lower values of newly formed bone in the area of the defect when compared to negative control (CG) and bone defect group filled with Biosilicate (CB). Our findings suggest that although Biosilicate((R)) exerts some osteogenic activity during bone repair, laser therapy is not able to modulate this process.

J Mater Sci Mater Med 2009 Nov 27

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19943088

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

The diagnosis and treatment of peripheral lymphedema.

Piller N, Carati C

Lymphology 2009 Sep 42(3) 146-7

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19938271

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Laser as a therapy for dry mouth symptoms in a patient with Sjogren’s syndrome: a case report.

Simoes A, Platero MD, Campos L, Aranha AC, Eduardo Cde P, Nicolau J

Oral Biology Research Center, Department of Biomaterials and Oral Biochemistry, School of Dentistry, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil. lysimoes@usp.br

This clinical case study reports on dry mouth symptoms in a patient with Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) who was treated with laser phototherapy (LPT). A 60-year-old woman diagnosed with SS was referred to the laboratory for lasers in dentistry to treat her severe xerostomia. A diode laser (780 nm, 3.8 J/cm2, 15 mW) was used to irradiate the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, three times per week, for a period of 8 months. The salivary flow rate and xerostomia symptoms were measured before, during, and after LPT. Dry mouth symptoms improved during LPT. After LPT, the parotid salivary gland pain and swelling were no longer present. Treatment with LPT was an effective method to improve the quality of life of this patient with SS.

Spec Care Dentist 2009 May-June 29(3) 134-7

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19938253

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

The effect of low-level laser irradiation (In-Ga-Al-AsP – 660 nm) on melanoma in vitro and in vivo.

Frigo L, Luppi JS, Favero GM, Maria DA, Penna SC, Bjordal JM, Bensadoun RJ, Lopes-Martins RA

Laboratory of Pharmacology and Phototherapy of Inflammation, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo – Sao Paulo 05508-900 SP – Brasil. luciofrigo@uol.com.br

BACKGROUND: It has been speculated that the biostimulatory effect of Low Level Laser Therapy could cause undesirable enhancement of tumor growth in neoplastic diseases. The aim of the present study is to analyze the behavior of melanoma cells (B16F10) in vitro and the in vivo development of melanoma in mice after laser irradiation. METHODS: We performed a controlled in vitro study on B16F10 melanoma cells to investigate cell viability and cell cycle changes by the Tripan Blue, MTT and cell quest histogram tests at 24, 48 and 72 h post irradiation. The in vivo mouse model (male Balb C, n = 21) of melanoma was used to analyze tumor volume and histological characteristics. Laser irradiation was performed three times (once a day for three consecutive days) with a 660 nm 50 mW CW laser, beam spot size 2 mm(2), irradiance 2.5 W/cm(2) and irradiation times of 60s (dose 150 J/cm(2)) and 420s (dose 1050 J/cm(2)) respectively. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the in vitro groups, except for an increase in the hypodiploid melanoma cells (8.48 +/- 1.40% and 4.26 +/- 0.60%) at 72 h post-irradiation. This cancer-protective effect was not reproduced in the in vivo experiment where outcome measures for the 150 J/cm(2) dose group were not significantly different from controls. For the 1050 J/cm(2) dose group, there were significant increases in tumor volume, blood vessels and cell abnormalities compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: LLLT Irradiation should be avoided over melanomas as the combination of high irradiance (2.5 W/cm(2)) and high dose (1050 J/cm(2)) significantly increases melanoma tumor growth in vivo.

BMC Cancer 2009 9 404

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19930543

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

The Effects of Low Level Laser Irradiation on Gingival Inflammation.

Pejcic A, Kojovic D, Kesic L, Obradovic R

Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Nis , Nis, Serbia .

Abstract Objective: The goal of this study was to analyze the effects of low level laser irradiation treatment and conservative treatment on gingival inflammation. Background: It is widely accepted today that the primary etiological factor for the onset of periodontitis is dental plaque, although the exact mechanism of damage remains unknown. Inflammation is a basic response of periodontal tissue to damage and serves as a fast first line of defense against damage and infections. The treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis has gone through various stages: from the simplest, classical treatment methods, through improved radical interventions, to a new era marked by laser technology. Low level laser irradiation has an anti-inflammatory effect, both general and local. Materials and methods: The research was done on patients who had chronic periodontal disease (mild periodontitis) with expressed clinical symptoms of gingival inflammation. All patients in the study underwent conservative treatment. After conservative therapy, the patients from the experimental group were subjected to 10 low level laser treatment sessions. Both groups underwent regular follow-up visits 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment, which involved only clinical examination using plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing index (BOP index). Results: A considerable decrease in all three indexes after the application of both therapies was noticed. The follow-up visits revealed the difference in index values. With laser therapy, the values of indexes decreased steadily, whereas with conservative therapy they increased up to a certain point, but did not reach the pre-therapy values. Conclusions: A general conclusion can be drawn that low level laser irradiation (semiconductor, 670 nm) can be used as a successful physical adjuvant method of treatment, which, together with traditional periodontal therapy, leads to better and longer-lasting therapeutic results.

Photomed Laser Surg 2009 Nov 22

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19929224

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[Phototherapy for chronic pain treatment]

Ide Y

Department of Anesthesia, Toho University Sakura Medical Center Sakura 285-8741.

Three types of machines are used in the field of phototherapy for chronic pain. One type is an instrument for low reactive level laser therapy (LLLT), one is an instrument for linear polarized infrared light irradiation (SUPER LIZER), and the last one is an instrument for Xenon light irradiation (beta EXCEL Xe10). The available machines for LLLT all project laser by semiconductor. The newest machine (MEDILASER SOFT PULSE10) has peak power of 10 W and mean power of 1 W. This machine is as safe as 1 W machine and is effective twice as deep as the 1 W machine. The irradiation by low reactive level laser induces hyperpolarization, decreased resistance of neuronal membrane, and increased intra-cellular ATP concentrations. The effects of low reactive level laser might be induced by the activation of ATP-dependent K channel. The significant analgesic effects of 1 W and 10 W LLLT were reported with double blind test. The significant analgesic effects of linear polarized near infrared light irradiation with double blind test were also reported. The effects of low reactive level laser upon the sympathetic nerve system were thought to result from its normalization of the overloaded sympathetic nerve system.

Masui 2009 Nov 58(11) 1401-6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19928507

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

[Diagnostic and therapeutic instruments for the pain clinic: introduction]

Hanaoka K

JR Tokyo General Hospital, Tokyo 151-8528.

Pain, a very unpleasant feeling often difficult to treat, is the most common complaint of patients visiting hospital. When a patient with pain visits our institution, first of all, we have to diagnose the pain including the grade of pain and stress associated with sympathetic-adrenal-medullary system. We then treat the pain of the patient using available devices. In the following special articles, functional magnetic imaging, device for measurement of salivary alpha-amylase and PainVisionTM for pain measurement are described as devices for diagnosis of pain. As devices for treatment of pain, epidural infuser pump, intrathecal infusion pump, spinal cord stimulation device and phototherapy device are also described. The mechanism and grade of intractable pain often confuse us to recognize pain. The devices, described in this special issue, are very useful for the evaluation and treatment of intractable pain. I feel happy if these articles greatly contribute to the treatment of patients with pain by pain clinicians.

Masui 2009 Nov 58(11) 1348-9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19928500

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Notalgia paresthesica successfully treated with narrow-band UVB: report of five cases.

Perez-Perez L, Allegue F, Fabeiro JM, Caeiro JL, Zulaica A

Department of Dermatology, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.

Abstract Background Notalgia paresthesica is a disorder of unknown origin characterized by pruritus localized to the patients’ back. Local pain, burning or paresthesias have also been described. No definite treatments have been found for this disorder and most of those reported to date are anecdotal. Topical capsaicin is the option most widely used among dermatologists. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, gabapentin, oxcarbazepine and botulinum toxin have recently shown promising effects. UVB has been used for decades to treat different pruritic skin diseases, but its benefits in the management of NP have not been stated to date. Objectives To test the effects of UVB in notalgia paresthesica. Methods We used a course of UVB narrow band to treat five patients with notalgia paresthesica. The treatment was administered following a phototype protocol in a UV 7002 cabinet. Results We provide the results of a course of UVB narrow-band phototherapy in five patients. Phototherapy contributed substantially to improve pruritus in all of them. Conclusion Given the benefits achieved, we stress the interest of UVB narrow-band as a safe and well tolerated alternative treatment for notalgia paresthetica.

J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2009 Nov 18

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19925596

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Posted in Research | 2 Comments

Low-level laser irradiation promotes the recovery of atrophied gastrocnemius skeletal muscle in rats

Posted on 6 January 2010 by James Carroll

Somehow this paper slipped through the net and missed my literature watch last year

Low-level laser irradiation promotes the recovery of atrophied gastrocnemius skeletal muscle in rats.

Nakano J, Kataoka, H, Sakamoto J, Origuchi T, Okita M, Yoshimura T

Unit of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Sciences, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki 852-8052, Japan.

Low-level laser (LLL) irradiation promotes proliferation of muscle satellite cells, angiogenesis and expression of growth factors. Satellite cells, angiogenesis and growth factors play important roles in the regeneration of muscle. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of LLL irradiation on rat gastrocnemius muscle recovering from disuse muscle atrophy. Eight-week-old rats were subjected to hindlimb suspension for 2 weeks, after which they were released and recovered. During the recovery period, rats underwent daily LLL irradiation (Ga-Al-As laser; 830 nm; 60 mW; total, 180 s) to the right gastrocnemius muscle through the skin. The untreated left gastrocnemius muscle served as the control. In conjunction with LLL irradiation, 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) was injected subcutaneously to label the nuclei of proliferating cells. After 2 weeks, myofibre diameters of irradiated muscle increased in comparison with those of untreated muscle, but did not recover back to normal levels. Additionally, in the superficial region of the irradiated muscle, the number of capillaries and fibroblast growth factor levels exhibited significant elevation relative to those of untreated muscle. In the deep region of irradiated muscle, BrdU-positive nuclei of satellite cells and/or myofibres increased significantly relative to those of the untreated muscle. The results of this study suggest that LLL irradiation can promote recovery from disuse muscle atrophy in association with proliferation of satellite cells and angiogenesis.

Exp Physiol 2009 Sep 94(9) 1005-15

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=19525315

Learn more about Low Level Laser Therapy / cold laser therapy here https://www.thorlaser.com/LLLT/

Posted in Research |

Roundup of the decade – a big thank you note

Posted on 31 December 2009 by James Carroll

Wow, what a decade it has been for LLLT. Credibility is critical for acceptance by reimbursement and regulatory authorities as well as doctors and therapists. In the last ten years over 1,000 papers have been published that build on the work of the early pioneers. Highlights of this decade include: FDA clearance, publication in high impact factor journals such as Nature, Pain, PNAS, Spine, Muscle and Nerve, Stroke, Blood and, of course, The Lancet. Output from world renowned institutions including Harvard Medical School, NASA and the US Navy add further reassurance.

Continue reading →

Posted in Special Feature | 2 Comments

The next decade of LLLT – the barriers to mainstream adoption

Posted on 31 December 2009 by James Carroll

Because LLLT modulates cellular oxidation and energy production it could potentially affect a wide range of diseases, injuries or other dysfunctions in the body.

By the end of the next decade, it is possible LLLT may be used in almost every department of every hospital (and every medicine cabinet of every home).

Given the amount of good quality research published over the last decade, why isn’t it part of mainstream medicine already?

Continue reading →

Posted in PBM/LLLT, Special Feature, THE FUTURE OF PBM/LLLT |

Low Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid: A Promising Procedure.

The short-term effects of low-level laser therapy in the management of breast-cancer-related lymphedema.

[Cytological evaluation of laser therapy influence upon skin reparation]

Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the Development of Exercise-Induced Skeletal Muscle Fatigue and Changes in Biochemical Markers Related to Post-Exercise Recovery.

Clinical and microbiologic follow-up evaluations after non-surgical periodontal treatment with erbium:YAG laser and scaling and root planing.

[Effect of the photosensitizers pheophorbid a and protoporphyrin IX on skin wound healing by the action of low-intensity laser irradiation]

The evolution of transcranial laser therapy for acute ischemic stroke, including a pooled analysis of NEST-1 and NEST-2.

Conservative Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation With Associated Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review.

Light distribution in intravascular low level laser therapy applying mathematical simulation: a comparative study.

Is low-level laser therapy effective in acute or chronic low back pain?

[Effects of low-level helium-neon laser on induced wound healing in rats]

[The use of electrothermal and phototherapeutic methods for the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome: a systematic review]

Mechanism of high-power NIR laser bacteria inactivation.

In Vivo Low-level Light Therapy Increases Cytochrome Oxidase in Skeletal Muscle.

Effect of HeNe Laser Irradiation on Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Expression of Cytokines and Chemokines in Paracoccidioidomycotic Lesions.

Light therapy by blue LED improves wound healing in an excision model in rats.

A short-term evaluation of Nd:YAG laser as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in treatment of periodontal inflammation.

Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Body Contouring and Spot Fat Reduction.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) attenuates RhoA mRNA expression in the rat bronchi smooth muscle exposed to tumor necrosis factor-alpha.

Mechanical evaluation of the influence of low-level laser therapy in secondary stability of implants in mice shinbones.

Development of compression-controlled low-level laser probe system: towards clinical application.

Seeing the Light – The Truth about Soft Tissue Lasers and Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy.

Mitochondrial mechanisms of photobiomodulation in context of new data about multiple roles of ATP.

Use of laser technology in orthodontics: hard and soft tissue laser treatments.

Oral mucositis. Review of literature.

Effect of near-infrared light-emitting diodes on nerve regeneration.

Effects of low-level light therapy on streptozotocin-induced diabetic kidney.

The influence of baseline characteristics on response to a laser acupuncture intervention: an exploratory analysis.

The effects of low-level diode laser treatment and dental pulp-capping materials on the proliferation of L-929 fibroblasts.

LPLI inhibits apoptosis upstream of Bax translocation via a GSK-3beta-inactivation mechanism.

The light revival: does phototherapy promote wound healing? A review.

Laser acupuncture for myofascial pain of the masticatory muscles. A controlled pilot study.

Laser biomodulation on L 929 cell culture.

Phototherapy: the challenge to accurately measure irradiance.

Effects of CO2 laser irradiation of the gingiva during tooth movement.

Acute Low Back Pain with Radiculopathy: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Psychological benefits 2 and 4 weeks after a single treatment with near infrared light to the forehead: a pilot study of 10 patients with major depression and anxiety.

Biphasic dose response in low level light therapy.

Effect of LED Phototherapy of Three Distinct Wavelengths on Fibroblasts on Wound Healing: A Histological Study in a Rodent Model.

Effect of low-level laser therapy (GaAs 904 nm) in skeletal muscle fatigue and biochemical markers of muscle damage in rats.

Endonasal phototherapy with Rhinolight for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

Laser acupuncture does not improve menopausal symptoms.

Effects of low power laser irradiation on bone healing in animals: a meta-analysis.

[Reaction on ‘Less need for insulin, a surprising effect of phototherapy in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus’]

Histological evaluation of the effect of low-level laser on distraction osteogenesis in rabbit mandibles.

Conservative management of posterior interosseous neuropathy in an elite baseball pitcher’s return to play: a case report and review of the literature.

The effects of helium-neon light therapy on healing of partial osteotomy of the tibia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Choice of treatment modalities was not influenced by pain, severity or co-morbidity in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Low-level laser therapy as a non-invasive approach for body contouring: a randomized, controlled study.

A multimodal approach to management of suspected neuropathic pain in a prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus).

Laser Photobiomodulation of Wound Healing: A Review of Experimental Studies in Mouse and Rat Animal Models.

Physiotherapy treatments for breast cancer-related lymphedema: a literature review.

Low level laser therapy does not modulate the outcomes of a highly bioactive glass-ceramic (Biosilicate((R))) on bone consolidation in rats.

The diagnosis and treatment of peripheral lymphedema.

Laser as a therapy for dry mouth symptoms in a patient with Sjogren’s syndrome: a case report.

The effect of low-level laser irradiation (In-Ga-Al-AsP – 660 nm) on melanoma in vitro and in vivo.

The Effects of Low Level Laser Irradiation on Gingival Inflammation.

[Phototherapy for chronic pain treatment]

[Diagnostic and therapeutic instruments for the pain clinic: introduction]

Notalgia paresthesica successfully treated with narrow-band UVB: report of five cases.

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