Assessment of Low Level Laser Therapy for Late Postoperative Pain After Lumbar Fusion Surgery

Assessment of Low Level Laser Therapy for Late Postoperative Pain After Lumbar Fusion Surgery

The primary objective of this study is to assess whether or not low level laser therapy (LLLT) decreases pain in post-operative orthopedic patients following lumbar fusion surgery.

Lumbar fusion surgery patients typically experience significant post-operative pain for several weeks and their rehabilitation does not start until 8 - 12 weeks postoperatively. We hypothesize that LLLT beginning 4 weeks postoperatively will provide significant reduction in postoperative pain.

Inclusion Criteria

• Age > 18 and < 85 years
• Post-operative lumbar fusion surgery
• Currently resides within 100 miles of UMC

Exclusion Criteria

• Pregnant
• Pacemaker
• Medications that have heat or light-sensitivity contraindications (such as: steroids, some antibiotics)
• Two or more cardiac risk factors
• Intraoperative complications
• Wound infection
• Spinal fluid leakage
• Open wound