Effects of single-session high-intensity laser therapy on knee pain, joint position sense, and muscle strength in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A pilot randomized controlled trial

K. Tangsriwong, P. Sakulsriprasert, T. Bunprajun, C. Thammajaree, N. Ariyakitsakul
Journal of Musculoskeletal Surgery and Research, May 2025

Objectives: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by knee joint degeneration affecting intra-articular and surrounding structures. This causes pain and impaired knee joint position sense (JPS). This study aimed to investigate the effects of single-session high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) on knee pain, JPS, and muscle strength in individuals with KOA.

Methods: Ten females aged over 50 were recruited. Knee pain was measured with a Visual Analog Scale, and joint reposition error angle and muscle strength were obtained at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 24 h post-intervention. The block randomization was done to an active HILT or a placebo HILT group.

Results: The between-group difference in knee pain, joint reposition error angle, and muscle strength was not found. However, knee pain was statistically significant at the immediate post and 24-h intervention in the active HILT group (P = 0.014). Normalized knee flexor and extensor muscle strength slightly increased immediately after post and 24-h intervention in the active HILT group.

Conclusion: This pilot study investigated the single-session intervention of HILT in individuals with KOA. The trend was found to alleviate pain and strengthen knee muscles.