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Far-Infrared Radiation Reduces Pain & Aids Early Recovery After Rotator Cuff Repair
Full Title
The Effect of Postoperatively Applied Far-Infrared Radiation on Pain and Tendon-to-Bone Healing After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Summary
This randomized study evaluated the effects of far-infrared radiation (FIR) therapy on pain and healing after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in 38 patients with medium-sized tears. The FIR group received twice-daily 30-minute FIR sessions from week 1 to week 5 post-surgery. At 5 weeks, FIR patients reported significantly lower pain scores (1.5 vs. 2.7, P = 0.019) and greater shoulder flexion at 3 months (151.6° vs. 132.9°, P = 0.045). By 6 months, ROM and healing rates were similar between groups. FIR may be a safe and effective method to reduce early postoperative pain and enhance rehabilitation.