High-intensity laser therapy for chronic neck pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) in reducing pain intensity in patients suffering from chronic nonspecific neck pain. Participants, including students and employees of Andrés Bello University, will be randomly assigned to receive either HILT combined with stretching exercises or a sham treatment. The study aims to determine if HILT can provide significant pain relief compared to a control group over a treatment period of four weeks. The trial will utilize a randomized clinical trial design to ensure robust results.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must be at least 18 years old.
* Both sexes (men and women)
* Non-specific, chronic neck pain, defined as pain or discomfort in the cervical region between the superior nuchal line and the spinous process of T1 or the shoulder girdle, with the following criteria: neck pain in the last 3 months or more; a questionnaire score of cervical disability (NDI) equal to or greater than 5; and cervical pain of 3 or greater on the numerical pain scale (NPRS).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neck or shoulder musculoskeletal injuries in the last 3 months (fractures, sprains, tendinopathies, dislocations, or muscle tears).
* Osteosynthesis materials close to the shoulders, neck, or surrounding areas.
* Wounds or skin changes in the shoulder and/or neck region (such as psoriasis, scars, or burns).
* Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant drugs for permanent use.
* Neurological alterations such as paresthesia, loss of sensation (partial or complete), decrease in strength, or color changes in the neck, arms, forearms, or hands.
* Diagnosed photosensitivity.
* Presence of solar urticaria or adverse reactions to sunlight.
* The presence of dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, hepatic porphyria, cutaneous carcinoid syndrome, or pellagra.
* Cancer or tumors of some type have been diagnosed in the last 5 years.
* Epilepsy.

Where it's running

• Universidad Andrés Bello
  Santiago, Las Condes, Chile Recruiting
• Hernán Andrés de la Barra
  Santiago, Chile Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Hernán de la Barra Ortiz, MSc — Universidad Nacional Andres Bello
• Study coordinator: Hernán A de la Barra Ortiz, MSc
• Email: hdelabarra@unab.cl
• Phone: 56984706322

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.