Effect of low-level LASER and neural mobilization on nociceptive threshold in experimental sciatica^*

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

There are few studies in the literature especially reporting the effects of LASER associated to neural mobilization for sciatica. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of low-level LASER with wavelength of 830 nm and fluency of 4 J/cm², of neural mobilization and of their association to decrease pain.

METHODS:

Sample was made up of 28 Wistar female rats, separated in four groups: G1 (placebo); G2 (neural mobilization); G3 (LASER); G4 (neural mobilization and LASER), being that all groups were submitted to sciatic nerve compression. Treatment was performed in the 3^rd, 5^th, 7^th, 10^th, 12^th and in the 14^thpostoperative days. To evaluate nociception an analgesimeter was applied both to injury site and the plantar region of right hind paw. Evaluation moments were AV1 (pre-injury); AV2 (3^rd postoperative day before treatment); AV3 (4^th postoperative day); AV4 (7^th postoperative day), AV5 (10^th postoperative day) and AV6 (14^th postoperative day) before treatment; and AV7 (15^th postoperative day).

RESULTS:

At evaluation sites, there has been no statistically significant difference among groups, but in comparing evaluations there has been significant difference where AV1 values were higher as compared to remaining evaluations.

CONCLUSION:

Low-level LASER with wavelength of 830nm and fluency of 4J/cm², neural mobilization and the association of both techniques were not effective to increase nociceptive threshold to pressure of female rats submitted to experimental sciatica.

Low level laser therapy; Nervous compression; Pain measurement