Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Versus Low-intensity Laser on Motor Conduction Velocity of the Common Peroneal Nerve Post Burn

Purposes of this study were the following: 1. To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of NMES in improving the motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the neuropathic common peroneal nerve post burn. 2. To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of LIL in improving the motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the neuropathic common peroneal nerve post burn. 3. To detect which one of both was the better and most effective than the other in improving the motor conduction velocity (MCV) of the neuropathic common peroneal nerve post burn.

Burned patients experience various problems, including skin damage, vascular damage, and metabolic stress. These injuries can lead to peripheral neuropathies, which can affect nerve function and cause weakness or lack of sensation. Lymphatic damage can delay wound healing, causing contractures that affect the patient's physical function. Burn-Associated polyneuropathy (BAPN) is common after thermal injury, affecting nerve function. Electrophysiological assessments of muscle and nerves are essential in neurology, physical therapy, and related clinical disciplines. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is used to increase force output, strengthen muscles, and control pain. Low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) is used to treat chronic inflammatory and fibrotic conditions, improving absorption of fluid, secretion of macrophage growth factors, DNA synthesis, pain reduction, and electron respiratory chain reaction. However, the effect of LILT on scar formation and treatment of fibrosis or calcification secondary to hematomas or fat necrosis is not yet evaluated. The need for this study developed from the lack of quantitative knowledge and information in the published studies about the application of both NMES and LIL to improve the neuropathic common peroneal nerve postburn. The significance of this study arises from the rarity of information about the effectiveness of both NMES and LIL on the neuropathic common peroneal nerve post-burn, as well as the precise dosage and frequency of treatment required to promote improvement of the neuropathic common peroneal nerve post burn.