Low level laser therapy for the patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy - A systematic review

Background: Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is an emerging treatment modality for management of neuropathic pain. It works by triggering biochemical changes with in cells. Objective: This systematic review focused on finding evidence on the effectiveness of LLLT on treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy. Methods: We conducted a systematic review (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL and Cochrane) to find the evidence on effectiveness of LLLT on treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy. Randomized and non-randomized studies were included in the review. Results: A total of 627 studies were screened. After the exclusion criteria (duplicate, animal studies, LLLT for treating other neuralgias) 6 studies were included in the study. The outcome measure that were considered were the difference in pain score and nerve conduction velocity test and quality of life questionnaire. Conclusion: The evidence obtained shows LLLT has a positive effect in controlling diabetic neuropathic pain.