Clinical Research Directory

Effectiveness of High Intensity Laser Therapy in Management of Lumbar Disc Herniation

Chronic lumbar radiculopathy is a multifactorial condition typically caused by lumbar disc herniation, where degenerative changes lead to nerve root compression, resulting in radiating pain, sensory disturbances, and motor deficits. Management requires a multidisciplinary, primarily conservative approach centered on physical therapy, including exercise, electrotherapy, and other non-invasive modalities. Exercise plays a key role in improving spinal stability, mobility, posture, and neuromuscular coordination, while treatments like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) provide pain relief through neuromodulation and tissue regeneration mechanisms. Recent evidence suggests that combining HILT with exercise may enhance functional outcomes more effectively than exercise alone. Accordingly, this study aims to compare the effectiveness of exercise alone, exercise combined with HILT, and exercise combined with conventional therapies (ultrasound, hot pack, and TENS) in patients with lumbar disc herniation. Patients aged 18-65 will be randomly assigned to three groups and undergo a 3-week treatment program, with outcomes assessed through measures of pain, disability, range of motion, and quality of life.