Clinical Applications & Treatment Protocols Flashcards

A CLT treating post-mastectomy lymphedema notes the patient has recently completed radiation therapy. The MOST appropriate response is to:

Answer: Delay treatment until tissue heals from radiation effects and consult oncologist

Recently irradiated tissue is fragile and may respond unpredictably to laser energy; treatment should be delayed and cleared by the oncologist before proceeding.

Photobiomodulation therapy for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder MOST commonly targets which tissue structures?

Answer: Joint capsule, masticatory muscles, and lateral pterygoid

TMJ laser protocols address the articular capsule, surrounding masticatory muscles (especially masseter and pterygoids), and trigger points contributing to jaw dysfunction.

When laser therapy is applied to a fresh surgical incision for scar prevention, the RECOMMENDED timing for initiating treatment is:

Answer: After suture/staple removal once the wound is closed and epithelialized

Laser therapy for scar prevention is typically initiated after the wound is epithelialized and sutures removed, preventing bacterial introduction while targeting early scar tissue formation.

Which clinical outcome measure is MOST appropriate for evaluating laser therapy effectiveness in chronic neck pain?

Answer: Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) combined with cervical range of motion

Combining validated pain scales (NPRS) with functional measures (cervical ROM) provides objective and subjective data to assess therapeutic progress in chronic neck pain.

A patient asks if laser therapy can be applied over their pacemaker. The CORRECT response is:

Answer: Laser therapy should not be applied directly over the pacemaker device due to potential electromagnetic interference

Direct application over a pacemaker is contraindicated because electromagnetic fields associated with some laser devices may interfere with pacemaker function.

Which parameter should be INCREASED when treating darker skin phototypes (Fitzpatrick V–VI) with laser therapy to reduce adverse events?

Answer: Time between pulses or overall session spacing

Darker skin types have higher melanin content, increasing laser energy absorption; increasing time between treatment sessions allows better heat dissipation and reduces risk of thermal injury.

In a multi-modal rehabilitation plan, laser therapy for Achilles tendinopathy is BEST scheduled:

Answer: Before exercise and manual therapy to reduce pain and facilitate movement

Applying laser therapy before exercise and manual therapy reduces pain and improves tissue extensibility, allowing the patient to participate more effectively in subsequent interventions.