Photobiomodulation in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The Role of Photobiomodulation in Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether photobiomodulation therapy (low-level laser therapy) can reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The study will include adults aged 18-60 years diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome.

The main questions it aims to answer are:

Does photobiomodulation therapy significantly reduce fatigue levels as measured by the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20)? Does photobiomodulation therapy improve pain, functional capacity, sleep quality, and psychological well-being in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome?

Researchers will compare the low-level laser therapy group with a placebo (sham laser) group to determine whether photobiomodulation therapy leads to greater improvements in fatigue, pain, and overall quality of life.

Participants will:

Receive either active low-level laser therapy or placebo treatment three times per week for eight weeks Undergo assessments of fatigue, pain, functional capacity, quality of life, sleep quality, and psychological well-being at baseline and follow-up intervals (3, 6, and 12 months)

Inclusion Criteria

• Age 18-60 years
• Diagnosis of a CFS according to the 2015 Institute of Medicine criteria
• Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score ≥ 4
• Ability to understand study procedures and provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria

• Comorbid psychiatric conditions (e.g., major depression, schizophrenia)
• Current use of corticosteroids or immunomodulators
• Known photosensitivity or dermatologic contraindications to LLLT
• Participation in structured exercise programs more than twice weekly
• Diagnosed malignancy or active infection -Not willing to be the part of study -