Efficacy of High-Intensity Laser Therapy in Early-Stage Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis

This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial evaluated the effectiveness of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) in patients with early-stage symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. A total of 39 participants were randomly assigned to receive either HILT combined with a standardized home exercise program or sham laser therapy combined with the same exercise program. Laser or sham treatment was administered over 10 weekday sessions during a two-week period. Participants were assessed at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at the three-month follow-up. Assessments included pain intensity, physical function, health-related quality of life, walking performance, knee range of motion, and muscle strength. The aim was to determine whether adding HILT to exercise provides additional clinical benefits compared with sham laser therapy combined with exercise.