Efficacy of Laser Therapy in Ankle Sprains: Design of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Studies on low intensity 904 nm laser therapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders show conflicting results. Yet, on the basis of a systematic review we concluded that 904 nm laser therapy for musculoskeletal disorders seems to be promising, when compared to placebo laser therapy. Quick pain relief and fast functional recovery are reported to be the most prominent claims of laser therapy. This paper presents a rationale of choices regarding the patients and type of treatment when designing a randomized, double blind, clinical trial on 904 nm laser therapy, as well as safeguards concerning optimum dose, constancy of dose and double blinding the actual laser therapy.