Infrared thermography as valuable tool for gynoid lipodystrophy (cellulite) diagnosis.

Cellulite is a morphological alteration of the tegument tissue, directly interfering in self-esteem with etiology and pathophysiology far from being a consensus. Although the visual diagnosis of cellulitis is well known, it does not represent the real pathological condition of the subcutaneous tissue. The aim of the study was to investigate the hypothesis that the more heterogeneous tissue pattern analyzed by infrared thermography, the more severe is the cellulite grade. Forty female participants were selected and 60 thighs were analyzed by clinical anamnesis and infrared thermography. Classical visual analysis was correlated to the tissue heterogeneity measured by thermography. R Spearman's correlation between visual evaluation and thermography was 0.92. Phototype presented a negative significant correlation of 0.67 with classical visual analysis. In the present study, we presented a simple method based on infrared thermography that can be adopted in any esthetics office with a correlation of 0.92 with the visual classic evaluation, but, besides, may be very helpful to the clinician to decide which treatment will be adopted, i.e., an aggressive and inflammatory approach such as the radiofrequency of shockwave therapy or an anti-inflammatory approach such as photobiomodulation, depending on the inflammatory status of cellulite.

Raman spectroscopy of healthy, injured and amniotic membrane treated rat spinal cords.

Spinal cord injury is a significant public health issue with high psychological and financial costs to both the family and the society. Effective treatment strategies are hence of immense value. Several reports have suggested application of amniotic membrane for treating injuries, and there is evidence that it may be used to treat spinal injuries. In this animal model study, we explore biochemical changes in amniotic membrane treated injured spinal cord with respect to untreated injured and uninjured spinal cord using Raman spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical analysis is able to classify control, untreated, and treated with 92%, 87%, and 80% efficiency, respectively; suggesting unique biochemical changes in each group. Such studies may lead to development of minimally invasive methodologies for spinal cord injury treatment monitoring.

Experiences of family members of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

OBJECTIVE: To describe, in the mothers' perception, the experiences lived by families in the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. METHOD: Qualitative study, carried out with 20 mothers of children diagnosed with autistic disorder accompanied by an institution in Teresina-Piauí, Brazil. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between February and March 2019 and subjected to content analysis. RESULTS: Five central ideas related to the stages experienced by family members after the diagnosis were identified, ranging from denial to acceptance. Family members and caregivers experience feelings of sadness and mourning for the discovery of the impossibility of curing the syndrome, revealing the need for care for this family. The search for help and adaptations of the routine are constant experiences. CONCLUSION: Caring for children who live with autistic disorder involves learning ranging from structural to emotional aspects, such as dealing with limitations and impossibility of cure, pointing out to the need for family care.

Experiences of family members of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder / Experiencias de familiares de niños diagnosticados con trastorno del espectro autista / Vivências de familiares de crianças diagnosticadas com Transtorno do Espectro Autista

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe, in the mothers' perception, the experiences lived by families in the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. Method: Qualitative study, carried out with 20 mothers of children diagnosed with autistic disorder accompanied by an institution in Teresina-Piauí, Brazil. Semi-structured interviews were conducted between February and March 2019 and subjected to content analysis. Results: Five central ideas related to the stages experienced by family members after the diagnosis were identified, ranging from denial to acceptance. Family members and caregivers experience feelings of sadness and mourning for the discovery of the impossibility of curing the syndrome, revealing the need for care for this family. The search for help and adaptations of the routine are constant experiences. Conclusion: Caring for children who live with autistic disorder involves learning ranging from structural to emotional aspects, such as dealing with limitations and impossibility of cure, pointing out to the need for family care.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Describir, en la percepción de las madres, las experiencias vividas por las familias en el cuidado de niños con trastorno del espectro autista. Método: Estudio cualitativo, realizado con 20 madres de niños diagnosticados de trastorno autista acompañados de una institución en Teresina-Piauí, Brasil. Las entrevistas semiestructuradas se realizaron entre febrero y marzo de 2019 y se sometieron a análisis de contenido. Resultados: Se identificaron cinco ideas centrales relacionadas con las etapas vividas por los familiares luego del diagnóstico, que van desde la negación hasta la aceptación. Los familiares y cuidadores experimentan sentimientos de tristeza y duelo por el descubrimiento de la imposibilidad de curar el síndrome, revelando la necesidad de cuidar a esta familia. La búsqueda de ayuda y adaptaciones de la rutina son experiencias constantes. Conclusión: Cuidar a los niños que viven con trastorno autista implica aprender que van desde los aspectos estructurales hasta los emocionales, cómo afrontar las limitaciones y la imposibilidad de cura, apuntando a la necesidad del cuidado familiar.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever, na percepção das mães, as experiências vivenciadas por famílias no cuidado de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista. Método: Estudo qualitativo, realizado com 20 mães de crianças diagnosticadas com transtorno autístico, acompanhadas por uma instituição em Teresina, Piauí. Entrevistas semiestruturadas foram realizadas entre fevereiro e março de 2019, e submetidas à análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Foram identificadas cinco ideias centrais relacionadas aos estágios vividos pelos familiares após o diagnóstico, desde a negação até a aceitação. Familiares e cuidadores vivenciam sentimentos de tristeza e luto pela descoberta da impossibilidade de cura da síndrome, revelando a necessidade de cuidado para com essa família. A busca por ajuda e as adaptações da rotina são vivências constantes. Conclusão: Cuidar de crianças com transtorno autístico envolve aprendizados que vão dos aspectos estruturais aos emocionais, como lidar com as limitações e impossibilidade de cura, apontando para a necessidade de um cuidado familiar.

Effect of Modified Laser Transcutaneous Irradiation on Pain and Quality of Life in Patients with Diabetic Neuropathy.

Background: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is one of the major complications developed by individuals with diabetes mellitus. DN is responsible for a high morbidity and mortality rate and impacts the public health and medical assistance resources. Intradermic laser irradiation on blood (ILIB) consists of the application of light beams on the radial arterial, providing anti-inflammatory and vasodilator effects, antiarrhythmic action, reduction of glucose, and stabilization of the hormonal and immunological systems. These effects help to maintain the physiological dynamics of the body. Objective: The goal of this research was to evaluate the effects of ILIB to relieve pain and improve the quality of life in DN patients. The sample comprised 30 diabetic volunteers with DN, randomly distributed into 3 groups: Control-conventional treatment; ILIB-100 mW, 660 ± 10 nm, 30 applications in total, divided into 3 stages of 10 applications, 30 min each, daily, with a 20-day interval between each stage; SILIB-same protocol described for ILIB, with the equipment switched off. Before and after the application of the therapeutic protocols, all volunteers were evaluated by the following instruments: Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), visual analog scale, Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS), and PAIN DETECT scale. Collected data were statistically analyzed with a 95% confidence interval, p < 0.05. Results: The ILIB group presented significantly lower pain levels and a better quality of life compared with the control and SILIB groups. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that ILIB therapy was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with DN.

Association of facial massage, dry needling, and laser therapy in Temporomandibular Disorder: case report.

This case report aims to evaluate the treatment of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) of muscular origin by associating facial massage (FM), dry needling (DN), and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The pre- and post-treatment evaluations consisted of clinical examinations based on the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) for TMD, pain intensity quantification by means of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), mandibular movement measurement, and electromyographic (EMG) analysis of the masseter and temporal muscles. Post-therapy assessment indicated a decrease in pain sites of 58%, in pain intensity mean (1.3), and an increase in the maximum aperture of 10 mm, in addition to normalization of EMG signals. We conclude that, after application of the treatment protocol, there was a decrease in painful sites, gain in amplitude of mandibular movements, and normalization of EMG activity.

Acute effects of whole body vibration on heart rate variability in elderly people.

BACKGROUND: Whole body vibration (WBV) has been widely used as a modality for physical activity. In fact, WBV has been used for physical rehabilitation, and to improve muscle performance; but there is little information about its effects on heart rate variability (HRV). AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vibration on HRV of the elderly using the vibratory platform. METHODS: Eleven older adults (7 men, 4 women), aged between 60 and 75 years, were subjected to WBV. The study consisted of a single session of WBV with volunteers standing upright for 10 min on the oscillating platform, with frequency of vibration set at 20 Hz (displacement ± 6 mm; orbital vibration). Pre (baseline) and post-WBV electrocardiograph signals were acquired using a cardiac monitor; and data were statistically analyzed using paired Student's t-test or Wilcoxon test, as appropriate. RESULTS: The results demonstrated an increase in SDNN (standard deviation (SD) beat-to-beat, N-N intervals), rMSSD (square root of the mean squared difference of successive N-Ns) and pNN50 (proportion of N-N50 divided by total number of N-Ns) post WBV (p = 0.032, p = 0.024 e p = 0.044, respectively), compared to baseline. The present study thus demonstrated that time domain variables (i.e., SDNN, rMSSD, and pNN50) increase post WBV. CONCLUSIONS: Older individuals are at high risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. As seen in the study, WBV improves HRV; and may help reduce risk of cardiac ailments. Moreover, WBV does not require extensive physical activity on the part of the participant. This makes WBV potentially beneficial to the elderly population. Further studies on WBV using different frequencies and training schedules may improve its applicability in clinics.

Comparative Study Between Low Level Laser and Therapeutic Ultrasound in Second Intention Ulcers Repair in Mice.

Introduction: An ulcer is an injury that affects the skin and has many causes. Healing is a way of protecting the body against any infectious agent that tries to infect you through the wound. Low level laser (LLL) in the treatment of ulcers, aims at maintaining the stability of the physiological process of tissue repair and ultrasound (US) acts by increasing the elasticity of tissue and scarring. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of LLL and US in wound healing of ulcers induced in mice. Methods: In this experimental study, a sample of 36 guinea pigs was divided into 6 groups of 6 mice, 2 groups as control (C7) and (C14), 2 treated with laser (GL7) and (GL14) and the others 2 treated with ultrasound (GU7) and (GU14). The ulcer was induced and after 7 days, 6 mice from each group were sacrificed to obtain the histological sections for analysis, and the remaining 6 mice from each group continued under treatment and in day 14, they were sacrificed to obtain histologic specimens while macroscopic image was also carried out. Results: Three aspects were analyzed, the percentage of wound regression where it was observed that there was a significant difference in the first 7 days. Regarding the inflammatory process, it was observed that in the first 7 days GL7 and GU7 improved significantly and within 14 days of the experimental period GU14 showed a significant difference when compared to C14. The number of fibroblasts present in the GL at 7 days showed a significant difference compared to the others, and at 14 days, the US group had a significant difference compared to the other groups. Conclusion: Thus, it was evident that the US had more effective results with anti-inflammatory action, better organization and increased deposition of collagen and fibroblasts. Therefore, it can be concluded that other studies are consistent with this taking into account the laser must be used during the early days of the initial healing process and the US during the end of this process.

Association of facial massage, dry needling, and laser therapy in Temporomandibular Disorder: case report / Associação entre massagem facial, agulhamento a seco e laserterapia no tratamento da Disfunção Temporomandibular: relato de caso

ABSTRACT This case report aims to evaluate the treatment of Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) of muscular origin by associating facial massage (FM), dry needling (DN), and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The pre- and post-treatment evaluations consisted of clinical examinations based on the Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) for TMD, pain intensity quantification by means of the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), mandibular movement measurement, and electromyographic (EMG) analysis of the masseter and temporal muscles. Post-therapy assessment indicated a decrease in pain sites of 58%, in pain intensity mean (1.3), and an increase in the maximum aperture of 10 mm, in addition to normalization of EMG signals. We conclude that, after application of the treatment protocol, there was a decrease in painful sites, gain in amplitude of mandibular movements, and normalization of EMG activity.

RESUMO O objetivo do presente relato de caso é avaliar a associação entre a Massagem Facial (MF), Agulhamento a Seco (AS) e Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade (TLBI) no tratamento da Disfunção Temporomandibular (DTM) de origem muscular. Paciente com DTM crônica foi submetida a 4 sessões de associação entre a MF, AS e TLBI. A avaliação inicial e final foi composta por exame clínico baseado nos Critérios diagnósticos de pesquisa para DTM (RDC - Research Diagnostic Criteria), quantificação da intensidade da dor por meio da Escala visual analógica de dor, mensuração dos movimentos mandibulares e análise eletromiográfica (EMG) dos músculos masseter e temporal. Na pós-terapia, foi observada a redução de 58% dos sítios dolorosos, da média (1,3) da intensidade de dor e aumento de 10 mm na abertura máxima, além da normalização dos sinais EMG. Conclui-se que, após a aplicação de protocolo de tratamento, houve a redução dos sítios dolorosos, ganho de amplitude dos movimentos mandibulares e normalização da atividade EMG.

Whole body vibration and blood glucose levels in elderly people: a pilot study / Vibração de corpo inteiro e níveis de glicemia em idosos: um estudo piloto

AIMS: To evaluate the effect of whole-body vibration therapy on blood glucose levels of elderly people using a vibratory platform. METHODS: The study included volunteers of both genders, aged between 60 and 75 years, without gait disorders or motor disabilities. Individuals with systemic disease, obesity, conflicting treatments, tobacco users, and those who could not understand the maneuvers were excluded. The study consisted of a single session of whole-body vibration. Heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial blood pressure, and blood glucose were obtained for each participant at baseline, immediately before the procedure. Volunteers were then placed in the standing position on the ground of an oscillating platform and treated for 10 min with a frequency of vibration set at 20 Hz (displacement ±6 mm; orbital vibration). Immediately after the whole-body vibration session, all data were collected again. Comparisons were made between baseline and post-treatment data. Normality was tested by Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Data were analyzed using paired Student's t-test or Wilcoxon test as appropriate. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Eleven participants (seven men, four women) participated of the study. The mean age was 64.18±4.37 years. The results showed a significant decrease in the glycemic indexes (p=0.016) and an increase in the respiratory rate (p=0.047) after the whole-body vibration session. CONCLUSIONS: Healthy elderly subjected for 10 minutes to whole-body vibration set at 20 Hz presented reduction of blood glucose levels and increasing of respiratory rate.

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o efeito da terapia da vibração de corpo inteiro nos níveis de glicemia em idosos saudáveis, usando uma plataforma vibratória. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu voluntários de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 60 e 75 anos, sem distúrbios de marcha ou incapacidades motoras. Indivíduos com doença sistêmica, obesidade, tratamentos conflitantes, usuários de tabaco e aqueles que não conseguiram entender as manobras foram excluídos. O estudo consistiu em uma única sessão de vibração de corpo inteiro. A frequência cardíaca, a frequência respiratória, a pressão arterial e a glicemia foram obtidas para cada participante na linha de base, imediatamente antes do procedimento. Os voluntários foram então colocados na posição de pé no piso de uma plataforma oscilante e tratados durante 10 minutos com uma frequência de vibração ajustada em 20 Hz (deslocamento ±6 mm, vibração orbital). Imediatamente após a sessão de vibração de corpo inteiro, todos os dados foram coletados novamente. Foram feitas comparações entre dados iniciais e do pós-tratamento. A normalidade foi testada pelo teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. Os dados foram analisados usando o teste t de Student emparelhado ou o teste de Wilcoxon, conforme apropriado. O nível de significância foi definido em p<0,05. RESULTADOS: Onze participantes (sete homens e quatro mulheres) participaram do estudo. A média de idade foi de 64,18±4,37 anos. Os resultados mostraram uma diminuição significativa nos índices glicêmicos (p=0,016) e um aumento na frequência respiratória (p=0,047) após a sessão de vibração de corpo inteiro. CONCLUSÕES: Idosos saudáveis submetidos por 10 minutos à vibração de corpo inteiro, ajustada em 20 Hz, apresentaram redução dos níveis de glicemia e aumento da frequência respiratória.

Efeito da terapia LED na disfunção temporomandibular: estudo de caso / Effect of LED therapy on temporomandibular disorder: a case study

OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o efeito da terapia light emitting diode (LED) na disfunção temporomandibular. DESCRIÇÃO DO CASO: Uma paciente diagnosticada com disfunção temporomandibular foi submetida a quatros sessões de terapia LED com intervalo de sete dias entre as irradiações. No exame inicial da articulação temporomandibular a paciente apresentava abertura de boca sem dor de 23 mm, abertura máxima de 25 mm e abertura máxima com auxílio de 27 mm. Após o tratamento houve aumento de 7 mm na abertura sem dor entre a primeira e a última avaliação enquanto que a abertura máxima de boca e a abertura máxima com auxílio aumentaram 6 mm entre a primeira e a última avaliação. Após 21 dias de tratamento detectou-se redução de 50% dos sítios dolorosos ao exame de palpação. Após o final do tratamento, a escala visual analógica de dor detectou diminuição da intensidade de dor em ambos os lados, e houve diminuição da média total da intensidade de dor. Pela análise das respostas ao questionário Medical Outcomes Study 36- item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), dos oito domínios de qualidade de vida avaliados, quatro apresentaram melhora. CONCLUSÕES: No protocolo empregado neste caso, após a terapia LED houve redução da intensidade da dor e aumento da amplitude de movimentos mandibulares. A remissão dos sinais e sintomas da disfunção temporomandibular resultou em melhora na qualidade de vida da paciente.

AIMS: To evaluate the effect of light emitting diode (LED) therapy on temporomandibular disorder. CASE DESCRIPTION: A woman diagnosed with temporomandibular disorder was subjected to four LED therapy sessions at a seven-day interval. In the initial examination of the temporomandibular joint the patient presented a mouth opening without pain of 23 mm, a maximum opening of 25 mm and a maximum opening with the aid of 27 mm. After the treatment, there was an increase of 7 mm in the opening without pain between the first and last evaluation, while the maximum opening of the mouth and the maximum opening with aid increased 6 mm between the first and last evaluation. After 21 days of treatment, a 50% reduction in painful sites was detected on the palpation examination. After the end of the treatment, the visual analog pain scale detected a decrease in pain intensity on both sides, and there was a decrease in the total mean pain intensity. By analyzing the responses to the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), of the eight quality of life domains evaluated, four showed improvement. CONCLUSIONS: In this case study, after LED therapy there was reduction in pain intensity and increase of the mandibular range of motion. The resolution of the signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder resulted in patient's better quality of life.

Amniotic membrane as an option for treatment of acute Achilles tendon injury in rats.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of human amniotic membrane (hAM) fragment on inflammatory response, proliferation of fibroblast and organization of collagen fibers in injured tendon. METHODS: Sixty rats were divided into 3 groups: C - surgical procedures without tendon lesion and with simulation of hAM application; I - surgical procedures, tendon injury and simulation of hAM application; T - surgical procedures, tendon injury and hAM application. These groups were subdivided into four experimental times (3, 7, 14 and 28 days). The samples underwent histological analysis and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. RESULTS: Histological analysis at 14 days, the T group showed collagen fibers with better alignment. At 28 days, the I group presented the characteristics described for the T group at 14 days, while this group presented aspects of a mature connective tissue. FT-IR analysis showed a clear distinction among the three groups at all experimental times and groups T and I presented more similarities to each other than to group C. CONCLUSION: Acute injury of tendon treated with human amniotic membrane fragment showed a faster healing process, reduction in inflammatory response, intense proliferation of fibroblasts and organization of collagen fibers.

Amniotic membrane as an option for treatment of acute Achilles tendon injury in rats

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of human amniotic membrane (hAM) fragment on inflammatory response, proliferation of fibroblast and organization of collagen fibers in injured tendon. Methods: Sixty rats were divided into 3 groups: C - surgical procedures without tendon lesion and with simulation of hAM application; I - surgical procedures, tendon injury and simulation of hAM application; T - surgical procedures, tendon injury and hAM application. These groups were subdivided into four experimental times (3, 7, 14 and 28 days). The samples underwent histological analysis and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Results: Histological analysis at 14 days, the T group showed collagen fibers with better alignment. At 28 days, the I group presented the characteristics described for the T group at 14 days, while this group presented aspects of a mature connective tissue. FT-IR analysis showed a clear distinction among the three groups at all experimental times and groups T and I presented more similarities to each other than to group C. Conclusion: Acute injury of tendon treated with human amniotic membrane fragment showed a faster healing process, reduction in inflammatory response, intense proliferation of fibroblasts and organization of collagen fibers.

Low-level laser therapy and Calendula officinalis in repairing diabetic foot ulcers.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of low-level laser therapy isolated and associated with Calendula officinalis oil in treating diabetic foot ulcers. METHOD: An experimental, randomized, controlled, prospective, interventional clinical case study using a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 32 diabetic patients of both genders. Participants were randomly divided into four groups. Doppler Ultrasound evaluation of the Ankle-Brachial Index, brief pain inventory and analog pain scale were performed at baseline and after 30 days. RESULTS: Reduced pain was observed in the Low-level laser therapy and Low-level laser therapy associated with Essential Fatty Acids groups (p<0.01). Regarding the Ankle-Brachial Index and Doppler Ultrasound, all groups remained stable. By analyzing lesion area reduction, Low-level laser therapy associated with Essential fatty acids group showed a significance of p=0.0032, and the Low-level laser therapy group showed p=0.0428. CONCLUSION: Low-level laser therapy, performed alone or associated with the Calendula officinalis oil was effective in relieving pain and accelerating the tissue repair process of diabetic foot. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos da Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade isolada e associada ao óleo de Calendula officinalis no reparo de úlceras em pé diabético. MÉTODO: Estudo de caso clínico, experimental, controlado, randomizado, prospectivo, intervencional, de caráter quantitativo. A amostra foi composta de 32 pacientes diabéticos, de ambos os gêneros. Os participantes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos. Ultrassom Doppler, avaliação do Índice Tornozelo-Braquial, Inventário breve de dor e escala de dor analógica foram realizados no início e após 30 dias. RESULTADOS: Houve redução da dor nos grupos Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade e Terapia a Laser de Baixa intensidade associada aos Ácidos Graxos Essenciais, com p<0,01. Quanto ao Índice Tornozelo-Braquial e Ultrassom Doppler, todos os grupos mantiveram-se estáveis. Na análise da redução de área da lesão, o grupo Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade associada aos Ácidos Graxos Essenciais apresentou uma significância p=0,0032, e o grupo Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade, p=0,0428. CONCLUSÃO: A Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade, realizada tanto isoladamente quanto associada ao óleo de Calendula officinalis, foi eficaz no alívio da dor e na aceleração do processo de reparo tecidual de pé diabético.

Low-level laser therapy and Calendula officinalis in repairing diabetic foot ulcers / Terapia con láser de baja intensidad y Calendula officinalis en la reparación de úlcera en pie diabético / Terapia a laser de baixa intensidade e Calendula officinalis no reparo de úlcera em pé diabético

Abstract OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of low-level laser therapy isolated and associated with Calendula officinalis oil in treating diabetic foot ulcers. METHOD An experimental, randomized, controlled, prospective, interventional clinical case study using a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 32 diabetic patients of both genders. Participants were randomly divided into four groups. Doppler Ultrasound evaluation of the Ankle-Brachial Index, brief pain inventory and analog pain scale were performed at baseline and after 30 days. RESULTS Reduced pain was observed in the Low-level laser therapy and Low-level laser therapy associated with Essential Fatty Acids groups (p<0.01). Regarding the Ankle-Brachial Index and Doppler Ultrasound, all groups remained stable. By analyzing lesion area reduction, Low-level laser therapy associated with Essential fatty acids group showed a significance of p=0.0032, and the Low-level laser therapy group showed p=0.0428. CONCLUSION Low-level laser therapy, performed alone or associated with the Calendula officinalis oil was effective in relieving pain and accelerating the tissue repair process of diabetic foot.

Resumen OBJETIVO Evaluar los efectos de la Terapia con Láser de Baja Intensidad aislada y asociada con el aceite de Calendula officinalis en la reparación de úlceras en pie diabético. MÉTODO Estudio de caso clínico, experimental, controlado, randomizado, prospectivo, intervencionista, de carácter cuantitativo. La muestra estuvo compuesta de 32 pacientes diabéticos, de ambos géneros. Los participantes fueron distribuidos aleatoriamente en cuatro grupos. Ecografía Doppler, evaluación del Índice Tobillo-Brazo, Inventario breve de dolor y escala visual analógica fueron realizados al inicio y después de 30 días. RESULTADOS Hubo reducción del dolor en los grupos Terapia con Láser de Baja Intensidad y Terapia con Láser de Baja intensidad asociada con los Ácidos Grasos Esenciales, con p<;0,01. En cuanto al Índice Tobillo-Brazo y la Ecografía Doppler, todos los grupos se mantuvieron estables. En el análisis de la reducción del área de la lesión, el grupo Terapia con Láser de Baja Intensidad asociada con los Ácidos Grasos Esenciales presentó una significación p=0,0032, y el grupo Terapia con Láser de Baja Intensidad, p=0,0428. CONCLUSIÓN La Terapia con Láser de Baja Intensidad, llevada a cabo tanto aisladamente como asociada con el aceite de Calendula officinalis, fue eficaz en el alivio del dolor y la aceleración del proceso de reparación de tejidos del pie diabético.

Resumo OBJETIVO Avaliar os efeitos da Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade isolada e associada ao óleo de Calendula officinalis no reparo de úlceras em pé diabético. MÉTODO Estudo de caso clínico, experimental, controlado, randomizado, prospectivo, intervencional, de caráter quantitativo. A amostra foi composta de 32 pacientes diabéticos, de ambos os gêneros. Os participantes foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos. Ultrassom Doppler, avaliação do Índice Tornozelo-Braquial, Inventário breve de dor e escala de dor analógica foram realizados no início e após 30 dias. RESULTADOS Houve redução da dor nos grupos Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade e Terapia a Laser de Baixa intensidade associada aos Ácidos Graxos Essenciais, com p<0,01. Quanto ao Índice Tornozelo-Braquial e Ultrassom Doppler, todos os grupos mantiveram-se estáveis. Na análise da redução de área da lesão, o grupo Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade associada aos Ácidos Graxos Essenciais apresentou uma significância p=0,0032, e o grupo Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade, p=0,0428. CONCLUSÃO A Terapia a Laser de Baixa Intensidade, realizada tanto isoladamente quanto associada ao óleo de Calendula officinalis, foi eficaz no alívio da dor e na aceleração do processo de reparo tecidual de pé diabético.

Effect of Brassica oleracea in rats skin wound healing.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of Brassica oleracea herbal balsam on the healing of skin wounds in rats. METHODS: Twenty four rats (Wistar, 60 days, 250 g) were divided into four groups: untreated animals (C) and treated with the ointment (T), subdivided into two experimental times (seven and 16 days). A 3cm² skin wound was made in the back of all animals. 100 ml of the Brassica oleracea was applied twice a day in T group. Biometric analysis was made with images captured at one, four, seven, ten, 13, and 16 days. At seven and 16 days, animals of each group were euthanized. The wound area removed was processed for histological and histomorphometric analysis to quantify birefringent collagen fibers. Statistical analysis was made considering p < 0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Biometric analysis revealed no significant differences between groups in both experimental times studied. However, histomorphometric analysis showed that the number of type I collagen fibers was significantly higher in the specimens of the group T16 compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Brassica oleracea accelerated the wound healing process increasing the number of type I collagen fibers and the maturity of the newly formed tissue.

Effect of Brassica oleracea in rats skin wound healing

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of Brassica oleracea herbal balsam on the healing of skin wounds in rats. METHODS: Twenty four rats (Wistar, 60 days, 250 g) were divided into four groups: untreated animals (C) and treated with the ointment (T), subdivided into two experimental times (seven and 16 days). A 3cm² skin wound was made in the back of all animals. 100 ml of the Brassica oleracea was applied twice a day in T group. Biometric analysis was made with images captured at one, four, seven, ten, 13, and 16 days. At seven and 16 days, animals of each group were euthanized. The wound area removed was processed for histological and histomorphometric analysis to quantify birefringent collagen fibers. Statistical analysis was made considering p < 0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Biometric analysis revealed no significant differences between groups in both experimental times studied. However, histomorphometric analysis showed that the number of type I collagen fibers was significantly higher in the specimens of the group T16 compared to the other groups. CONCLUSION: Brassica oleracea accelerated the wound healing process increasing the number of type I collagen fibers and the maturity of the newly formed tissue.

Assessment of changes in mineral components in bone repair after laser therapy and pharmacotherapy by µ-EDX: a new potential tool in medical diagnostics.

BACKGROUND DATA: Energy-dispersive microspectroscopy X-ray fluorescence (µ-EDX) is a non-destructive, multi-element analytical method. This technique is able to quickly perform a qualitative and semiquantitative evaluation of several sorts of samples with minimal or no previous sample preparation. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and synthetic calcitonin have been used to promote osteogenesis and to accelerate the repair process in bone lesions. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate qualitatively and semiquantitatively biochemical changes in the composition of the bone tissue during the repair process in rats by the analytical measurement tool, µ-EDX. METHODS: We created a surgical bone defect in 60 Wistar rats with induced osteoporosis treated with calcitonin, LLLT, and a combination of both. The animals were divided into four groups. In groups Ca and CaLa, calcitonin, 2 UI/kg, i.m., was administered on alternate days. LLLT (20 J/cm(2), 10 mW, 830 nm, 6 sec, every 48 hours) was applied to the La and CaLa groups. The experimental times were 7, 14, and 21 days. After euthanasia, the specimens were measured for inorganic chemical compounds with µ-EDX. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that it was possible to perform qualitative and semiquantitative analysis of inorganic components of biological samples with this technique during the bone repair process using different experimental treatment protocols. CaLa specimens showed the relation between calcium and phosphorus (Ca/P) closest to stoichiometric hydroxyapatite.

Cicatrização de feridas decorrentes da hanseníase utilizando laser de baixa intensidade / Wound healing leprosy induced by low intensity laser

A hanseníase é causada pelo bacilo Mycobacterium leprae(M. leprae), apresentando grande capacidade de infectar vários indivíduos com contágio pelas vias aéreas superiores. A hanseníase considerada um problema de saúde pública, principalmente nos países subdesenvolvidos e nos em desenvolvimento, devido à presença de incapacidades e estigma social...

Leprosy is caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium leprae(M. leprae), presenting the capacity to infect multiple individuals with infection of the upper airways. Hansen considered a public health problem, especially in under developed countries and developing countries, due to the presence of disabilities and social stigma...

The effect of two phototherapy protocols on pain control in orthodontic procedure--a preliminary clinical study.

Phototherapy with low-level coherent light (laser) has been reported as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory as well as having a positive effect in tissue repair in orthodontics. However, there are few clinical studies using low-level LED therapy (non-coherent light). The aim of the present study was to analyze the pain symptoms after orthodontic tooth movement associated with and not associated with coherent and non-coherent phototherapy. Fifty-five volunteers (mean age = 24.1 ± 8.1 years) were randomly divided into four groups: G1 (control), G2 (placebo), G3 (protocol 1: laser, InGaAlP, 660 nm, 4 J/cm(2), 0.03 W, 25 s), G4 (protocol 2: LED, GaAlAs, 640 nm with 40 nm full-bandwidth at half-maximum, 4 J/cm(2), 0.10 W, 70 s). Separators were used to induce orthodontic pain and the volunteers pain levels were scored with the visual analog scale (VAS) after the separator placement, after the therapy (placebo, laser, or LED), and after 2, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h. The laser group did not have statistically significant results in the reduction of pain level compared to the LED group. The LED group had a significant reduction in pain levels between 2 and 120 h compared to the control and the laser groups. The LED therapy showed a significant reduction in pain sensitivity (an average of 56%), after the orthodontic tooth movement when compared to the control group.