ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an interferential pattern generated by two identical and independent lasers in the relief of knee pain. BACKGROUND DATA: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is generally applied by a single probe. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A double-blind controlled clinical trial was performed on 152 patients with knee pain who were randomly assigned into two different groups. Group I patients (n = 76) received interferential laser therapy generated by two identical laser probes located opposite each other on the knee joint. Group II patients (n = 76) received one live probe in conventional laser therapy and one dummy probe. The device used in both groups was an AlGaAs laser (wavelength 810 nm, power 100 mW, in continuous mode). Fifteen laser sessions were applied transcutaneously on 5 knee points (6 J/point) per session. In addition, patients in both groups received a quadriceps strength program based on isometric exercises. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used for pain evaluation in different situations, such as in standing, in knee flexion/extension, and when going up and down stairs. VAS pain scores were evaluated before, in the middle of, and after treatment. RESULTS: ANOVA results showed no significant differences between groups for all VAS scores or in the interaction with the sessions (p > 0.05). The VAS score results showed a statistically significant pain reduction throughout all sessions (p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS: Interferential laser therapy is safe and effective in reducing knee pain. However, the results of the study indicate that it is not superior to the use of a single conventional laser.
