The Effect of Photo biomodulation Therapy on Shoulder Muscle Activation, Motor Function, Pain Reduction, and Quality of Life in Hemiplegia: A Systematic Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63682/jns.v14i26S.6942Keywords:
Photo-biomodulation therapy, Hemiplegia, Shoulder dysfunction, Stroke rehabilitation, Pain managementAbstract
Background: Hemiplegic shoulder dysfunction is a common and debilitating complication following stroke, often leading to impaired motor function, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life. Photo biomodulation therapy (PBMT), a non-invasive modality using low-level laser or light therapy, has emerged as a potential intervention for neuromuscular rehabilitation. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PBMT in improving shoulder muscle activation, motor function, pain reduction, and quality of life in hemiplegic patients.
Methods and Materials: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases for studies primarily published between 2014 and 2025. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials, cohort studies, or quasi-experimental studies, and review studies that evaluated PBMT effects on post-stroke hemiplegic patients. A total of eighteen studies were included based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data extraction focused on study design, sample size, PBMT parameters, and clinical outcomes.
Results: The included studies demonstrated consistent evidence that PBMT significantly enhances shoulder muscle activation, improves motor function, reduces pain, and contributes positively to quality of life. Most studies utilized wavelengths between 650–850 nm with positive therapeutic outcomes and minimal adverse effects. Some variability existed in PBMT protocols and patient populations, but overall findings were favourable.
Conclusion: PBMT shows promise as an effective adjunct therapy for improving shoulder function and reducing pain in hemiplegic patients. While current evidence is encouraging, further large-scale studies with standardized protocols are needed to confirm its long-term efficacy and optimize clinical application.
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