Effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on skeletal muscle fatigue and damage
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on exercise performance and skeletal muscle damage. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 24 male college swimming athletes. LLLT was administered prior to exercise using a He-Ne laser at 632.8 nm, with a power output of 5 mW, a total irradiation duration of 300 s, and an energy density of 0.3 J/cm2 per diode or placebo, applied to two points on the rectus femoris muscles bilaterally. The performance in a 200-m breaststroke swim, as well as thigh and leg girth, blood lactate levels, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were assessed before and immediately after the swimming protocol. The LLLT group demonstrated a significant improvement in 200-m breaststroke performance (p < 0.05) and a significant reduction in thigh circumference, blood lactate, CK, and LDH levels (p < 0.05) when compared to the placebo group. Pre-exercise photobiomodulation by LLLT improved the 200-m breaststroke swimming performance, and reduced muscle fatigue and damage.
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