MLS^® Laser Therapy for hemiplegic shoulder pain: a new opportunity in rehabilitation

Post-stroke shoulder pain: an all-too-common problem

One of the most frequent complications after a stroke is hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP), a problem that affects up to 70% of patients and often hinders the rehabilitation process. The pain limits movement, reduces independence and slows the recovery of motor functions of the arm and hand.

A clinical study opens new perspectives: the role of laser therapy

A recent randomised clinical study published in Lasers in Medical Science* analysed the effectiveness of three approaches to treat post-stroke shoulder pain:

• Traditional physiotherapy (targeted exercises, mobilisation, stretching)
• Physiotherapy + NMES (neuromuscular electrostimulation)
• Physiotherapy + MLS^® Laser Therapy

Patients were treated for 4 weeks, 5 days a week.

The results: laser and NMES more effective than physiotherapy alone

All groups showed improvements, but those who received MLS^® Laser Therapy or NMES obtained superior results, in particular:

• Reduction of pain (VAS scale)
• Improvement of shoulder function (SPADI index)
• Greater independence in daily activities (Barthel index)

In addition, the MLS^® group was the only one to note a significant reduction in muscle spasticity, a key aspect for motor recovery.

Why does MLS^® Laser Therapy work?

The patented MLS^® laser technology uses a dual wavelength (808 nm and 905 nm) with combined and synchronised emission. This allows an action that is

• Anti-inflammatory: as it reduces pain mediators
• Anti-oedema: as it improves local microcirculation
• Biostimulant: as it promotes tissue regeneration
• Analgesic: as it quickly relieves pain

The treatment is non-invasive, well tolerated and easily integrated into the rehabilitation process.

Discover MLS^® Laser Therapy

Conclusions: a technological ally for post-stroke recovery

This study confirms that MLS^® Laser Therapy can represent a valid support for rehabilitation in patients affected by a stroke. 

Integrating this type of treatment

• accelerates the functional recovery of the arm
• reduces pain, making physiotherapy more bearable and accessible
• helps the patient to participate with greater consistency and motivation in the rehabilitation process
• improves quality of life and independence

While waiting for further long-term studies, the results are encouraging and offer new therapeutic perspectives for patients and healthcare professionals.