Role of laser acupuncture in chronic respiratory diseases

BackgroundUse of laser makes efficient acupuncture application without the use of stainless steel needles. Irradiation with laser of acupuncture points can produce effects of diminishing inflammation, relieving pain, enhancing metabolism, improving tissue regeneration and immunity.ObjectivesTo discuss its efficacy as non-pharmacological intervention that may provide a valuable adjunctive or alternative treatment for chronic respiratory diseases.Subjects and methodsIndications were 31 patients suffering from chronic respiratory illness (asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and ILD). They were subdivided into a control group that received conservative treatment with medication and a study group that received a 10 day course of LLL in addition to medication. All patients were subjected to full history taking, Plain Chest X-ray and HRCT chest. Parameters assessed before and after 10 days: BMI, flow/volume loop and treadmill 6MWT.Main resultsThere was no statistically significant difference in the mean value of age, BMI and sex difference between both groups. Also there was no statistically significant difference regarding baseline spirometric data and 6 MWD between both groups. There was a statistically significant improvement in FVC, FEV1, FEF 25–75% and 6 MWD after 10 days of laser when compared with baseline data within the study group, while within the control group there was a statistically significant improvement in FVC, FEV1 and 6 MWD after 10 days of medical treatment when compared with baseline data. By comparing both groups, there was more significant improvement in FEV1 and 6 MWD after 10 days of laser when compared to the control group.ConclusionA ten-day course of LLL may be a useful adjunct to standard medical care for chronic respiratory diseases, though this requires corroboration with larger studies.