Laser acupuncture improving functional chronic constipation in children: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Functional chronic constipation (FCC) is a disorder caused by low fiber consumption, lack of fluid intake, lack of mobility, or side effects of medications. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of laser acupuncture and the commonly used osmotic laxative, lactulose (as the control), both combined with behavioral therapy and dietary modification, on children with FCC in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Forty children were randomly chosen, aged 5–15 years with FCC, and randomized into two equal groups (gender ratio (50% male; 50% female), mean ± SD weight (24.2 ± 6.27 kg and 25.7 ± 7.47 kg for groups A and B, respectively)). Study group (group A): used laser acupuncture (650 nm), 30 mW, 0.15 cm2 spot size, 90 s per acupuncture point (ST25, ST36, ST37, BL25, and LI11). Control group (group B): lactulose syrup (1 to 3 mL/kg/day) orally, in divided doses 3 times weekly for 4 weeks, and behavioral training for both groups. Evaluations were conducted before and after the study to assess the efficacy of the therapy. Median value frequency significantly increased in groups A and B post-treatment (4 (6.75–3) and 3 (3.75–2), respectively) compared to pre-treatment (2 (2–1) and 2 (2–0.25), respectively) (p = 0.0001), in favor of group A (p = 0.01). Significant improvement of stool consistency according to Bristol stool scale (BSS) in groups A and B (p = 0.0001), (p = 0.002) respectively in favor of group A (p = 0.03). T-test, Fisher, and Wilcoxon signed rank tests were conducted to compare groups. Non-invasive, painless laser acupuncture therapy can be considered as an alternative therapy for patients with FCC.

Effect of low-level laser therapy on quadriceps and foot muscle fatigue in children with spastic diplegia: a randomized controlled study

“…Also, our results were in agreement with a study in 2010; their findings were consistent with the observed changes in biochemical markers related to skeletal muscle recovery and the decrease in muscle fatigue [ 21 , 22 ]. Another study conducted in 2016 found that the low-level laser may help in increasing the recruitment of muscle fibers, additionally increasing the onset time of the spastic muscle fatigue, and decreasing pain intensity in stroke patients with spasticity, as has been observed in healthy subjects and athletes [ 23 ].…”

Efficacy of acupuncture-related therapy in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

“…Laser acupuncture involves irradiating acupoint skin with a low-intensity laser beam, producing various effects that penetrate deep into body tissues to treat diseases with anti-inflammatory and analgesic functions [ 114 , 115 ]. As a non-invasive, painless, safe, and effective method [ 116 , 117 ], laser acupuncture has been primarily used to treat neurological diseases [ 118 ], knee osteoarthritis [ 119 ], and functional constipation [ 120 ], but its application in treating PD remains limited. The scope of treatment with laser acupuncture and Mo still requires comprehensive and multi-level research.…”

Refine the Approachability and Rigor of Acupuncture Research

“…For instance, techniques like fire acupuncture, superficial acupuncture, and laser acupuncture are distinct from what people know as standard acupuncture. [3][4][5] Moreover, in Chinese, the term "acupuncture" can be defined as needling plus moxibustion. [6] Given the existence of various acupuncture related interventions, it becomes important for researchers to precisely define the intervention concept.…”