Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

 ABSTRACT

In this research the effects of low power Ga – As Laser irradiation applied to acupuncture points on subjective symptoms in chronic Lateral epicondylitis were studied. The method of this study was quasi Experimental. Thirty two patiens (age range 22 – 57 years) with clinically diagnosed chronic lateral epicondylitis took part in this study. All referred patients were examined (exclusion and inclusion criteria) by a physician who also examined selected patients after the treatment period. All of the patients were categorized at random, into two groups for laser (n=16) or control (n=16). In the control group, the laser was placebo, but because these patients were to be treated (ethical reasons), we used pulsed ultrasound to treat both groups (basic treatment). Mean value for pain (Vas–10 cm) in laser group was lower than control group in the 5th (P=0.008) and the 10th (P=3.7× 10 ) sessions. No significant difference was observed between both groups in the 1 st session. Mean value for isometric grip strength (N) in laser group was higher than control group in the 10th (p=0.01) session. No significant differences were observed between both group in the 1st and the 5th sessions. It is concluded that low power Ga – As laser stimulation applied to acupuncture points was found to improve subjective and objective symptoms in chronic lateral epicondylitis.