Effect of Dynamic versus Static Low-Level Laser Therapy on Adhesive Capsulitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose. Adhesive capsulitis significantly impacts quality of life and functional capacity. While low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has shown promise in treatment, the optimal application method remains debated. Objective: to compare the effectiveness of LLLT applied with dynamic versus static limb positioning in treating adhesive capsulitis. Material & Methods. Forty patients with adhesive capsulitis were randomly assigned to dynamic LLLT with active shoulder range of motion (ROM) (Group A, n=20) or static LLLT (Group B, n=20). Both groups received conventional treatment. Primary outcomes included a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, grip strength, and shoulder ROM (flexion and abduction), which was measured pre-and post-treatment. Results. Dynamic LLLT showed significantly greater improvements in pain reduction (56.80% vs. 39.18%, p=0.001) and grip strength (152.88% vs. 118.70%, p=0.001) compared to static application. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in shoulder ROM, though the differences between groups were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions. Dynamic LLLT application appears superior to static application for pain reduction and grip strength improvement in adhesive capsulitis treatment, while both methods show comparable effectiveness for ROM improvement.