The purpose of this study is, to demonstrate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy on symptoms, clinical and electrophysiological parameters in elbow ulnar neuropathy.

Ulnar neuropathy of the elbow is the second most common entrapment neuropathy of the upper extremity. The ulnar nerve is prone to entrapment due to its anatomical location in the elbow. The most important cause of entrapment occurs as a result of frequent chronic mechanical compression or stretching. Repetitive flexion-extension movement of the elbow increases the pressure in both the cubital tunnel and other potential entrapment sites, causing tension in the ulnar nerve and increased intraneural pressure.

Ulnar neuropathy of the elbow, a detailed history and a comprehensive physical examination are the essential first steps in making the correct diagnosis. In case of doubt, electrophysiological studies, in particular, play an important role in diagnosis by determining both the location of nerve compression and the severity of the disease. There are conservative and surgical methods for the treatment of ulnar neuropathy in the elbow. In most patients, especially in mild and moderate entrapments, conservative treatment is preferred instead of surgery as initial treatment.

Low-level laser therapy, one of the physical therapy modalities, creates photochemical reactions and biostimulation in the cells, interstitial tissue, vascular structure and immune system. Its anti-inflammatory effect is through inhibition of Cyclooxygenase-2 enzyme and a decrease in Prostaglandin E2 levels, and its analgesic effect is by inhibiting nociceptive pathways in peripheral nerves, thus reducing pain. It has been shown to increase nerve regeneration and nerve conduction, reduce the effects of nerve compression, and may stimulate nerve healing thanks to its biophysical effect.

There is no sham-controlled study showing the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy in elbow ulnar neuropathy, the second most common entrapment neuropathy. The study was planned to investigate the effectiveness of low-level laser treatment on symptoms, clinical and electrophysiological parameters in elbow ulnar neuropathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow evidenced by electrophysiological evaluation
• Symptoms onset with more than 1 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of thenar, hypothenar or intrinsic muscle atrophy,
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hypothyroidism
• Receiving an electrophysiological diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical radiculopathy, brachial plexopathy, thoracic outlet syndrome
• Vascular disease
• Ulnar nerve injury or trauma,
• Malignancy,
• Having received treatment for ulnar neuropathy in the elbow within the last 3 months,
• Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAI) regularly

Since the light coming from the probe was visible in the laser applications used in both groups, the patients were not able to learn which group they were in, meaning they were blinded. All outcome measures were evaluated by another researcher who did not know which group the patients were in, thus ensuring that the study was double-blind.