Photobiomodulation for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: can light therapy help fatigue and quality of life?
Official title: The Role of Photobiomodulation in Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Run by University of Lahore · NCT07546539 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether low-level laser therapy can reduce fatigue and improve quality of life in adults with chronic fatigue syndrome, compared with a sham treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Lahore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Larkana, Sindh) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | February 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07546539 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18-60 with a CFS diagnosis per the 2015 Institute of Medicine criteria and a Fatigue Severity Scale score of 4 or higher.
✕Probably not a fit
Participants without a response to photobiomodulation or with exclusion criteria may not experience fatigue or quality-of-life improvements.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Adults aged 18 to 60 with chronic fatigue syndrome will be randomized to receive either active photobiomodulation (low-level laser therapy) or a placebo sham treatment three times a week for eight weeks. The trial will assess fatigue using the Fatigue Severity Scale and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, along with measures of pain, functional capacity, sleep, and psychological well-being. The goal is to determine if photobiomodulation provides greater improvements than placebo for fatigue and quality of life. Researchers will compare outcomes between the active and sham groups to see if the therapy yields meaningful benefits. The study is conducted at The Larkana General Hospital in Larkana, Sindh, sponsored by the University of Lahore.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience reduced fatigue and improved daily functioning and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on photobiomodulation for fatigue has shown mixed results; this study adds randomized, placebo-controlled data in CFS.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Age 18-60 years * Diagnosis of a CFS according to the 2015 Institute of Medicine criteria * Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score ≥ 4 * Ability to understand study procedures and provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria * Comorbid psychiatric conditions (e.g., major depression, schizophrenia) * Current use of corticosteroids or immunomodulators * Known photosensitivity or dermatologic contraindications to LLLT * Participation in structured exercise programs more than twice weekly * Diagnosed malignancy or active infection -Not willing to be the part of study -
Where it's running
-
The larkana General hospital , larkana
Larkana, Sindh, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr Adil Amir Ali Dr Aadil Amir Ali, PhD
- Email: aadilamirali@hotmail.com
- Phone: 923002929464
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.