The effectiveness of laser therapy on pain and function in FBS: A case report

Failed Back Syndrome (FBS) is a resultant of lumbar laminectomy which cannot give the expected results to the patients and surgeons. Fail back syndrome can also be called as Fail Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS). Early tissue mobilization and scar formation is very important for early functional recovery. Neural Scarring is one of the important complications that are responsible for FBS. Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been used for tissue and scar healing. The main aim of the study was to assess the effects of LLLT on FBS. A 60 year male developed FBS as he underwent laminectomy and discectomy for IVDP at the level of L4-5, L5-S1 and was complaining of pain during day today activities. Examination revealed pain and tenderness over the same level. Pain at rest was experienced which increased on daily activities. On examination the pain was found to be ischemic in origin with no neural involvement. Plantar pressure analysis suggested high pressure on right heel. These findings lead to decreased functional outcome, quality of life and also participation in social activities. Patient was treated with low level laser therapy (LLLT), 78 Hz for 3 min with cluster probe (3.4J/cm2, EC LASER-wavelength 632.8nm, power output 30mw) followed by strengthening program. There was a significant reduction in pain and tenderness. Results showed 70% reduction on VAS (10 pre-treatment and 3 post treatment) and also there was an improvement in the plantar pressure weight distribution and hence the gait pattern. From results we can conclude that LLLT is effective in improving chronic pain caused due to FBS and it is also responsible for improving weight distribution. LLLT helps to increase vascularity and decrease neural scarring thereby reduces pain and improves gait pattern.