The Efficacy of High-Power Laser Therapy in Meralgia Paresthetica
The Efficacy of High-Power Laser Therapy as an Adjunct to Conservative Management in Patients With Meralgia Paresthetica: A Randomized, Assessor-Blinded, Controlled Trial
Uşak University
50 participants
Jan 12, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The management of MP typically follows a conservative pathway, encompassing patient education, lifestyle modifications (e.g., avoidance of tight garments, weight loss), pharmacotherapy (such as neuropathic pain agents or corticosteroid injections), and physical therapy. However, evidence supporting the efficacy of these interventions is largely anecdotal or derived from low-quality studies, and a substantial proportion of patients experience persistent symptoms refractory to standard care. Therefore, the primary objective of this randomized, sham-controlled, assessor-blinded study is to investigate the efficacy of HPLT as an adjunct to standard conservative care on pain intensity, sensory symptoms, and functional capacity in patients with chronic Meralgia Paresthetica. The investigators hypothesize that patients receiving active HPLT will demonstrate significantly greater improvements in these outcomes compared to those receiving a sham laser procedure
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria4
- Adults aged 18-65 years.
- Clinical diagnosis of MP (based on history: burning pain, tingling, numbness in the lateral thigh; tenderness over the inguinal ligament near the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS); and a positive pelvic compression test or Tinel's sign over the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN)).
- Symptoms persistent for at least 3 months (chronic).
- A baseline pain intensity of ≥4 on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).
Exclusion Criteria7
- Secondary MP (e.g., due to pelvic surgery, trauma, or tumor mass effect confirmed by imaging).
- Significant lumbar radiculopathy (L1-L2).
- Coagulopathy, use of anticoagulants.
- Pregnancy.
- Skin disease or infection in the treatment area.
- Presence of a cardiac pacemaker.
- Severe cognitive impairment.
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Interventions
Operating Mode: Continuous wave Power Output: 10 Watts Energy Dose: A typical effective dose for deep nerves is "800 J per session"
The device will beep and display as if it is working.
Education: Advice on avoiding tight belts/trousers, weight loss if applicable, and posture modification. -Home Exercise Program: Stretching exercises for the hip flexors (iliopsoas, rectus femoris) and tensor fasciae latae (TFL) to reduce tension on the inguinal ligament.
Locations(1)
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NCT07328360