Efficacy of High-Intensity Laser Therapy for Meralgia Paresthetica: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial.
Am J Phys Med RehabilJun 4, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPhysical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Hussein G Mogahed, Mohamed Magdy ElMeligie, Rafik E Radwan et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy in 62 patients with meralgia paresthetica. At week 12, significant improvements were observed in pain (P = 0.006), function (P = 0.043), and sensory nerve conduction velocity (P = 0.027) compared to sham treatment.
Key findings
- High-intensity laser therapy resulted in a significant reduction in pain (P = 0.006) compared to sham.
- Function improved significantly as measured by the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (P = 0.043).
- Sensory nerve conduction velocity showed significant improvement (P = 0.027) favoring high-intensity laser therapy.
- Mild, transient adverse events occurred more frequently with high-intensity laser therapy (16.1% vs. 0%, P = 0.0525).
Why it matters
The study provides evidence for high-intensity laser therapy as a noninvasive treatment option for meralgia paresthetica, potentially offering relief from pain and improved function for affected patients.