Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy Versus Shock Wave on Diabetic Foot

Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) significantly impair patients’ quality of life and may progress to lower limb amputation. Non-invasive modalities such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and shock wave therapy (SWT) have been investigated for their potential to accelerate wound healing.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of LLLT and SWT on wound surface area (WSA), ulcer volume (UV), and health-related quality of life (QoL) among individuals with DFUs.
Patients and methods: Forty adults with chronic DFUs were randomly allocated to two equal groups selected from Abo Kir General Hospital . Group A (n = 20) received LLLT three times per week, while Group B (n = 20) received SWT twice per week, both over a four-week period. WSA was quantified via digital planimetry, , UV was assessed by the saline-instillation method, and QoL by the Diabetic Foot Ulcer Scale (DFS).
Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements. Group A showed a 57.4% reduction in ulcer surface area and 45.0% reduction in volume, while Group B showed 32.0% and 35.6% reductions, respectively. Quality of life (DFS score) also improved in both groups: Group A increased 22.2% and Group B 9.4%. Post-treatment DFS was significantly higher in Group A compared to Group B.
Conclusion: It could be concluded that both LLLT and SWT are effective in reducing ulcer size and volume and in improving quality of life in patients with DFUs. However, LLLT demonstrated superior therapeutic outcomes compared to SWT.