[Low-level laser therapy in multiple sclerosis: justification and optimization methods of application. (Literature review)].

Researchers reviewed 87 studies examining whether low-level laser therapy could help people with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease that damages the nervous system and causes difficulties with movement, balance, and other functions. MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerves, leading to inflammation and progressive damage. The review found that low-level laser therapy shows promise as a treatment option for MS. This therapy uses specific wavelengths of light that don't heat tissue but appear to trigger healing responses in cells. The researchers explained that the treatment works through several mechanisms, including reducing inflammation, protecting nerve cells from damage, and potentially helping damaged nerves repair themselves. Importantly, the review highlighted that laser acupuncture—applying low-level laser to traditional acupuncture points—is one of the recommended systemic approaches for MS treatment. The studies showed that combining laser acupuncture with local laser treatment directly over affected areas of the nervous system produced better results. For optimal effectiveness, practitioners must carefully select the right wavelength, power level, frequency, and treatment duration. Other beneficial approaches include laser blood irradiation, either through a vein or externally over blood vessels. While more research is needed, these findings suggest laser acupuncture could be a valuable complementary therapy for managing MS symptoms. If you're considering this treatment, consult with a qualified practitioner experienced in both laser therapy and acupuncture for neurological conditions.

This literature review analyzed 87 publications on low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for multiple sclerosis treatment. The authors identified therapeutic mechanisms of low-intensity laser radiation including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and neuroregenerative effects through photobiomodulation. Key clinical finding: laser acupuncture represents a promising systemic approach for MS management when combined with local irradiation of lesions. Optimal treatment protocols require precise parameter selection including wavelength, operation mode (continuous vs. pulsed), power density, frequency, and exposure duration. The review recommends multimodal LLLT approaches combining: (1) laser blood irradiation (intravenous or transcutaneous), (2) laser acupuncture at appropriate meridian points, and (3) local irradiation over demyelinated lesions. No specific sample sizes or effect sizes were provided as this was a narrative review rather than meta-analysis. Clinical takeaway: Laser acupuncture should be incorporated as part of comprehensive LLLT protocols for MS, with careful attention to dosimetry optimization for maximum therapeutic benefit in reducing autoimmune inflammation and supporting myelin regeneration.