Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a chronic disease of a diverse nature, affecting about 12 million Americans (more than 2% of the population) and accounting for about 6% of chronic pain patients outside the United States. Middle-aged women are more likely to suffer from the disease than men. Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include extensive muscle and joint pain, fatigue and other ailments. Drug treatment, dietary supplements, and physical and cognitive-behavioral therapies often bring only moderate benefits.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a phototherapy used to relieve pain and improve wound healing.

High intensity laser therapy (HILT) uses higher-powered lasers that penetrate deeper into the tissues.

Previous studies have shown that LLLT can be effective in treating fibromyalgia, but recent guidelines do not recommend its use. Research suggests that HILT may be a more Effective than LLLT in the treatment of pain. The case review describes the results of using different levels of HILT power in a patient suffering from drug-resistant fibromyalgia.

The patient reported marked improvement After the first medium-power HILT treatment. After subsequent low- and medium-power treatments, pain relief was also observed, but the effect was shorter.

The use of high-energy lasers has resulted in longer and deeper benefits.

The patient was able to forgo opioid analgesics after the HILT procedures.

Laser therapy, especially HILT, appears to have potential in the Relieve pain and improve physical activity in patients with fibromyalgia. Clinical trials are needed, but results from past cases suggest that more intensive HILT treatments may provide more lasting benefits. The use of laser therapy may benefit patients with fibromyalgia, minimizing the negative impact of the disease and reducing the risk of opioid dependence.

For more information on the study, click here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00296-017-3856-5