Comparative Assessment of Low-level Laser Therapy and Ultrasound Therapy in Patients of Lateral Epicondylitis Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Kolkata

This study aims to compare the long-term effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Ultrasound Therapy (UST) in the management of lateral epicondylitis among patients attending the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation OPD of R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata. Lateral epicondylitis, a common overuse injury affecting the extensor tendon origin, results in significant pain, functional limitation, and reduced grip strength. Although modalities such as LLLT and UST are routinely used in rehabilitation settings, existing literature offers conflicting evidence regarding their comparative efficacy, and real-world observational data—especially from India—are limited. This study intends to address this gap by evaluating clinical outcomes using validated tools such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE), and hand-held dynamometry.

The research is designed as a prospective interventional study involving 54 participants randomized into LLLT and UST groups. Both groups will receive standardized treatment protocols, including hot packs, counterforce bracing, and prescribed wrist extensor exercises. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, two weeks, one month, three months, and six months to determine changes in pain, functional capacity, and grip strength. Ethical approval will be obtained prior to study initiation, and all participants will provide informed consent. Data will be analysed using appropriate statistical methods, including t-tests and repeated-measures ANOVA.

It is expected that both LLLT and UST will provide pain relief and functional improvement, but LLLT may offer superior long-term benefits. The findings will support evidence-based decision-making and help optimize non-invasive treatment strategies for lateral epicondylitis in routine clinical practice.