Efficacy of Low-level Laser Therapy on Motor Recovery and Functional Independence among Individuals with Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Introduction: Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury (ISCI) results in permanent neurological deficits, leading to challenges in selfcare, respiration, sphincter management, motor function and overall functional ability. Despite advancements in the treatment of spinal cord injuries, many individuals still experience motor deficits and struggle with functional independence, significantly lowering their quality of life and limiting their capacity for independent living. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been shown to be effective in neuroprotection, including cell regeneration, Schwann cell activation, cell growth, reduction of spasticity and improvement of various functions. However, its effectiveness in enhancing these functional domains in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries remains underexplored. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of LLLT on motor recovery and functional independence among individuals with ISCI. Materials and Methods: This randomised controlled trial was conducted at the Indian Spinal Injury Centre in Vasant Kunj under Amity University Noida from January 2023 to November 2024. A total of 104 participants who had suffered ISCI between six months to one year prior to enrollment and were classified as grade C or D were recruited. The experimental group received LLLT, while the control group received placebo LLLT on nine points around the fractured vertebrae. Both groups underwent conventional therapy. Evaluations were performed at baseline and after four weeks of intervention using amplitude-based surface Electromyography (EMG) on the lower extremities to assess motor recovery and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM) to evaluate improvements in self-care, respiratory function, sphincter management and mobility. The normality of the data was checked using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Paired t-tests and Independent t-tests were conducted within and between the groups, respectively, using a p-value of ≤0.05. Results: Both groups showed improvement; however, the experimental group demonstrated better improvement in EMG scores in the majority of the muscles of the lower extremity compared to the control group, suggesting a positive impact on motor recovery. SCIM scores indicated significant improvement within the groups, but non significant differences were found between the groups regarding self-care, respiratory function, sphincter management and mobility. Conclusion: The study indicated that LLLT had a positive effect on motor recovery and functional independence. These findings may serve as an effective measure for both clinicians and the patient community.