Low-level laser therapy combined to functional exercise on treatment of fibromyalgia: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

This study aims to investigate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) combined to a functional exercise program on treatment of FM. A double-blind and placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial composed of 22 women divided into two groups: placebo group (functional exercise program associated with placebo phototherapy n = 11) and laser group (same exercise program associated with active phototherapy; n = 11). Each session lasted from 40 to 60 min and was performed three times a week for 8 weeks. Phototherapy (808 nm, 100 mW, 4 J, and 142.85 J/cm 2 per point) was bilaterally applied to different points of the quadriceps (8), hamstrings (6), and triceps sural muscles (3) immediately after each exercise session. Pre- and post-intervention evaluations regarding pain (sites, intensity, and threshold), functional performance (balance, functional tests), muscle performance (flexibility and isokinetic variables), depression, and quality of life were conducted. A reduction in pain and improvement in functional and muscular performance, depression, and quality of life were observed in both groups ( p 0.05). In conclusion, the benefic effects of functional exercise were not improved by combination with LLLT.