Benefits of applying low intensity laser therapy in cartilage regeneration
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62827/fb.v27i1.1134Keywords:
Laser Therapy; Cartilage; Low-Level Light Therapy.Abstract
Introduction: Cartilage plays a fundamental role in the human body by contributing to skeletal movements and protecting articular surfaces. Its development occurs through two processes, appositional and interstitial growth, with appositional growth being the most prominent. Several physiotherapeutic techniques have been investigated to address dysfunctions involving this tissue, including low-intensity laser therapy (LILT), which has shown promising results in pain reduction and tissue modulation. Objective: To review the scientific literature regarding the benefits of LILT in the repair of chondral tissue. Methods: This integrative review was conducted using studies published in the last ten years. Searches were performed in the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and PubMed databases. The descriptors used were “chondral tissue,” “high intensity laser,” and “low intensity laser,” combined with the Boolean operators AND and OR. Results: Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. LILT demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain associated with tendinopathies and musculoskeletal disorders, particularly when combined with other therapeutic modalities. Functional outcomes varied across studies. In osteoarthritis, significant improvements in pain and function were observed, while results for rheumatoid arthritis remained inconclusive. Experimental studies also indicated photobiomodulation effects capable of promoting increased cellular proliferation and chondrogenesis. Conclusion: LILT has shown relevant benefits in analgesia, especially when used in combination with other treatment approaches. Evidence suggests that it may support chondral tissue regeneration by stimulating chondrocyte activity and extracellular matrix synthesis. However, findings regarding functional improvement remain inconsistent. Further studies are necessary to deepen understanding and strengthen the scientific basis for the therapeutic effects of LILT on chondral tissue.
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