Effects of photobiomodulation therapy on inflammatory mediators in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is ranked as one of the most prevalent health conditions. It is likely that some inflammatory mediators could be associated with pain and disability in these patients. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is a non-pharmacological therapy often used in patients with LBP that decrease release of inflammatory mediators and accelerate muscle repair in different muscle skeletal conditions, as mechanisms of action. However, to date there are no studies that evaluated the effects of PBMT on the levels of inflammatory markers in patients with LBP. Objectives: This project aims to investigate if there is presence of local inflammatory markers, in the longissimus dorsi muscle, in patients with chronic non-specific LBP. We also aim to evaluate the acute effects of PBMT on the local or systemic inflammatory markers and intensity of pain in these patients. Methods and analysis: We will be conduct two separate studies: a cross sectional pilot study (to determine the presence of local inflammatory markers) and a randomized placebo-controlled trial with blinded patients, assessors and treatment providers (to evaluate the acute effects of PBMT on inflammatory markers). For this, 18 patients with chronic non-specific LBP will be recruited and one single session of treatment will be provided with patients receiving either placebo or active PBMT The primary outcome of the cross sectional study will be the levels of inflammatory markers in patients with chronic non-specific LBP compared to healthy individuals. The outcomes of second study will be the levels of inflammatory markers and pain intensity. (AU)