ĐÁNH GIÁ HIỆU QUẢ LASER CHÂM TRONG ĐIỀU TRỊ ĐAU THẮT LƯNG MẠN TÍNH DO THOÁI HÓA CỘT SỐNG THẮT LƯNG

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the pain relief and functional improvement efficacy of laser acupuncture in treating chronic low back pain due to lumbar spine degeneration. Methods: A prospective intervention study was conducted on 33 patients with lumbar spine degeneration at Tra Vinh Traditional Medicine Hospital from September 2024 to June 2025. Patients received laser acupuncture at acupoints Shen Shu (BL23), Da Chang Shu (BL25), Huan Tiao (GB30), and Wei Zhong (BL40) with parameters: wavelength 660 nm, power 20 mW, frequency 20 Hz, irradiation time 10 minutes/point, once daily, 5 days/week for 4 weeks. Pain level was assessed using VAS scale and lumbar function using ODI index at baseline, after 2 weeks, and after 4 weeks. Results: VAS score decreased from 71.21 ± 6.16 at baseline to 44.88 ± 3.23 after 2 weeks and 14.85 ± 3.19 after 4 weeks (p<0.0001). ODI score decreased from 35.45 ± 3.06 to 22.48 ± 1.95 after 2 weeks and 9.88 ± 3.48 after 4 weeks (p<0.0001). No adverse effects were recorded. Patient satisfaction reached 9.48 ± 0.51 points. Conclusion: Laser acupuncture is a safe and effective method for pain relief and functional improvement in patients with chronic low back pain due to lumbar spine degeneration.