High-Intensity Laser Therapy vs. Ultrasound Therapy

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High-Intensity Laser Therapy vs. Ultrasound Therapy

Research Question

The research question for this article is whether high-intensity laser therapy or ultrasound (US) therapy is more beneficial for short-term treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS). There has been little evidence found on the effects of physical therapy treatment, with some studies showing effectiveness of US therapy and others showing limited effectiveness in this type of condition.

Review of Literature

According to Cameron, laser therapy increases collagen production and decreases inflammation, while hindering bacterial growth. It also promotes vasodilation so that blood and other nutrients are able to flow into the area. One indication for the use of laser therapy includes soft tissue healing, which would be beneficial in treating SAIS. Cameron also states that “laser therapy was associated with increased collagen synthesis, rate of healing and wound closure, tensile strength, tensile stress, number of degranulated mast cells, and reduced would healing time.”2

This article also looked at the benefits of US therapy in the patients with SAIS. According to Cameron, “thermal effects of ultrasound include acceleration of metabolic rate, reduction or control of pain and muscle spasm, alteration of nerve conduction velocity, increased circulation, and increased soft tissue extensibility.”2 US applies electrical current to the treatment area through a crystal in the transducer. The duration of the US depends on the total area being treated and a longer duration increases the amount of energy that is being transmitted into the tissue. Ultrasound is able to reach deeper tissues better than other types of physical agents. If the pur...

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...therapy clinics and I will probably use it more during my practice. I will examine the area that needs to be treated, taking into consideration the various contraindication and precautions, and begin my therapy session. Even though I believe that this is a beneficial intervention, if it is now showing any progress I will look into other types of modalities in order to help treat my patient.

Works Cited

1. Santamato A, Solfrizzi v, Fiore P, et al. Short-term effects of high-intensity laser therapy versus ultrasound therapy in the treatment of people with subacromial impingement syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. Physical Therapy [serial online]. July 2009;89(7):643-652. Available from: MEDLINE, Ipswich, MA. Accessed October 13, 2011.

2. Cameron, M.H. Physical Agents in Rehabilitation: From Research to Practice. St. Louis Missouri: Saunders Elsevier; 2009.

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