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Low-Level Laser Treatment for Hip Arthritis

Arthritis of the hip stems from osteoarthritis and can cause severe pain and inflammation. Fortunately, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a safe and effective method for addressing the symptoms of this condition.

  1. Significance

    • The hips function at the center of a person's mobility, and arthritic disruption can significantly affect one's quality of life, especially because the inflammation and pain of arthritis worsens over time. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved LLLT as an effective method for reducing arthritic pain and inflammation.

    Features

    • LLLT involves the use of low-energy laser technology in a quick, painless procedure that is free of known side effects and downtime. Multiple treatment sessions are needed for optimal effectiveness.

    How it works

    • Low-energy laser beams, emitted from a handheld or overhead device, penetrate the affected skin tissue of the hips, stimulating rapid healing of the abnormal cells and regeneration of new cells. As the functions accelerate and healing begins, pain and swelling decrease.

    Pain and safety

    • Treatments require no use of pain medications (before or after), and no anesthesia. There is no use of thermal (heat) energy, which removes the risk of burns and tissue damage. Patients return to normal activity immediately after treatment.

    Benefits and drawbacks

    • No side effects, risks or complications, and no downtime or recovery time are benefits to this form of treatment. However, the time spent in treatment sessions may be a drawback. 8 to 30 treatment sessions (2 to 4 times per week) to achieve desired results is typical, according to Spine-Health.com.

    Efficacy

    • The Journal of Rheumatology reported study results that confirmed the efficacy of LLLT for arthritic pain and inflammation reduction, and the FDA has verified its effectiveness.

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