Efficacy of Low Level Laser Therapy in Chronic Discogenic Sciatica

Background: Sciatica is a common problem and the pain interferes with the daily life activity. Sciatica occurs in about 5% of people who have back pain. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc. In about 90% of cases sciatica is caused by a herniated disc with nerve root compression, but lumbar stenosis and (less often) tumors are possible causes. Herniation of the nucleus pulposus occurs in 95% to 98% of cases at the disc between the lumbar vertebrae (L4-L5), or lumbar vertebra and sacrum (L5-S1). Purpose of the Study: To examine the effect of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on sciatic pain in discogenic patients. Methods: Thirty patients participated in this study. Patients were assigned into two equal groups; Group A: Was the study group and Group B: Was the control group. Data of visual analogue scale, Modified Oswestry Disability Questionnaire (MODQ), and straight leg raise were collected from each patient pre and post treatment the selected physical therapy program for both groups, with LLLT for Group A only. Results: The results showed significant improvement in pain intensity, functional disability, straight leg raise and speed of walking in the Group A patient compared with those of the Group B. Conclusion: It can be concluded that LLLT is effective physical therapy modality for treating chronic sciatic patients with discogenic lesion and should be recommended in physotherapy program.