Article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of an exercise
training protocol and low-level laser therapy (and the association of both
treatments) on musculoskeletal atrophy using an experimental model of knee
osteoarthritis (OA). DESIGN: Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into
five groups: control group, knee OA control group, OA plus exercise training
group, OA plus low-level laser therapy group, and OA plus exercise training
associated with low-level laser therapy group. The exercise training and the
laser irradiation started 4 wks after the surgery, 3 days per week for 8 wks. The
exercise was performed at a speed of 16 m/min, 3 days per week, 50 mins per day,
for 8 wks. Laser irradiation was applied at two points of the left knee joint
(medial and lateral), for 24 sessions. RESULTS: The results showed that both
trained groups (irradiated or not) presented a significant increase in the muscle
cross-sectional area and a decrease in muscle fiber density compared with the
knee OA control group. Moreover, both trained and laser-irradiated groups
demonstrated decreased muscle-specific ring-finger protein 1 and atrogin-1
immunoexpression. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that exercise training and
low-level laser therapy were effective in preventing musculoskeletal alterations
related to atrophy caused by the degenerative process induced by knee OA.

Langue : ANGLAIS