From the results of 35 randomized clinical trials among 1,655 patients the effectiveness of laser therapy for musculoskeletal disorders and skin disorders is assessed. A criterium-based meta-analysis that took into account the methodological quality of the trials was used. In general the methodological quality appeared to be low. Therefore, no definite conclusions can be drawn about the effectiveness of laser therapy for skin disorders. The effectiveness of laser therapy for musculoskeletal disorders seems to be larger than the effectiveness of a placebo treatment. More specifically, for rheumatoid arthritis, posttraumatic joint disorders, myofascial pain and trigeminal neuralgia laser therapy seems to have a specific therapeutic effect. Further studies are indicated to determine the optimal dose and treatment schedule of laser therapy.

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