This systematic review and meta-analysis examined energy-based treatments for postpartum women. The study included 1,377 participants who received infrared irradiation or low-level laser therapy (LLLT). These treatments were compared against standard care, placebo, or other interventions like therapeutic ultrasound.
For infrared irradiation, the data showed a reduction in postpartum pain compared to standard care or no treatment. However, the evidence regarding wound healing with infrared therapy remains inconclusive. The study did not find significant improvements in healing for this method.
Regarding low-level laser therapy, the analysis found no improvement in pain relief or wound healing when compared to placebo. When compared to therapeutic ultrasound, LLLT offered no advantage for either pain or healing outcomes. The researchers noted very high heterogeneity in the laser therapy data compared to ultrasound.
No adverse events or discontinuations were reported in the safety data. Because the evidence certainty was assessed using the GRADE approach and limitations exist, readers should view these findings as informative rather than definitive proof of benefit for all patients.