WO2008144866A2 - Equipment and process to retard muscular fatigue or increase muscular resistance to fatigue - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an equipment and a process to increase muscular resistance or reduce muscular fatigue, both based on the application of Low Level LASER with a wavelength operating in the visible to infrared range that, in a controlled manner, modulates the capacity of muscular resistance to fatigue and the concentration of post-exercise blood lactate. The equipment and process are, therefore, useful in various medical/sporting applications such as, for example: athletic performance and post-exercise recovery; chronic back pain; neck pain; fibromialgia; all and any illness involving muscular fatigue and the local reduction of the blood flow to the muscular tissue. The equipment and process of the invention also provide a post-exercise reduction of the levels of creatine kinase and lactate.

Description

Specification of Patent of Invention

Equipment and Process to Retard Muscular Fatigue or Increase Muscular

Resistance to Fatigue Field of the Invention The present invention discloses an equipment to retard muscular fatigue or increase muscular resistance to fatigue and a process to retard muscular fatigue or increase muscular resistance to fatigue, both based on the application of Low Level LASER. More specifically, the present invention provides an equipment and a process in which the application of Low Level LASER in the visible and infrared spectra, in a controlled manner, modulates the resistance capacity to muscular fatigue and the concentration of post- exercise blood lactate, and is therefore useful in various medical/sporting applications. The equipment and process of the invention also provide a reduction in the post-exercise levels of creatine kinase and lactate. Background of the Invention

One of the main factors for the incidence of injuries is the lack of physical preparation or excess training, consequently mediators of muscular fatigue. Muscular fatigue decreases recruitment and muscular contraction, increasing its response time, decreasing strength and muscular power, significantly altering the postural control and proprioception, also increasing the elasticity of the tendons and ligaments, since we do not have an adequate muscular tension (WILLENS et al, 2005). Muscular Fatigue

The term fatigue is normally used to describe a sensation of tiredness and accompanying reduction in efficiency of muscular work. Fatigue is related to the depletion in offer of the creatine-phosphate system, of blood glucose, of muscular glycogen muscular and consequently of ATP, and with the increased concentration of blood lactate and metabolic acidosis (WILMORE & COSTILL, 2001). There is a consensus among various researchers that the term fatigue is the decrease in the muscular capacity to uphold the generation of strength and the speed of relaxation, induction of alterations in the contractile characteristics of the muscle and alterations in the electric properties that generate dysfunctions in the human neuromuscular system. Fatigue has been heavily researched, but the exact mechanisms that lead to the alterations it causes have not been elucidated (LESS et al, 2001).

Fatigue is associated with the decline in proprioception, increase of ligamentary lassitude, decrease in strength and muscular power. Muscular fibers undergo a loss in the ability to absorb energy when fatigued, thus having an alteration in response time of the motor unit and a body adjustment disorder. Chappell (2005) ascertained that after fatigue induction, there occurred a decrease in the height of the upward jump and an increase in pressure of the front portion of the tibia, caused by muscular fatigue mainly in the hind compartment of the leg.

Rassier & Mclntosh (2002) highlight that the decrease in muscular strength and the induction of fatigue are intricately related to the decrease of Ca2 + myoplasma or else by the decrease in sensitivity to this mediator, through the sarcoplasmatic recticulum, thus reducing the contractability of the muscle and consequently its strength.

Hepple et al (2003) asserts that there is an established relationship between the reduced offer of O₂ (hypoxia) and the increase in frequency of fatigued muscles, whereas when there is extra O₂, muscular fatigue is delayed.

According to Weist et al (2004), there is a difference between muscular fatigue and central fatigue. Muscular fatigue occurs after a maximum activity, where the pH falls and concentrations of lactic acid increase, arising from the lack of oxygen in the tissues. The Central Nervous System tries to counterbalance this situation by increasing motivation, but when the activity continues, it becomes hard to perform this compensatory activity with the skeletal-muscular insufficiency. Through electromyography, Weist also demonstrated lower electromyographic activity, of about 16%, in front tibial muscle and gastrocnemius after an exhaustive run. When not eliminated, the lactic acid becomes disassociated, turning into lactate and causing the accumulation of hydrogen ions. This accumulation produces a situation of muscular acidosis, comprising the muscular fibers. Short-lasting, high-intensity activities significantly increase the levels of lactate and hydrogen ions. Fortunately the organism has a stoppage system that appeases the acidosis situation. Even so, in this type of exercise, the pH drops below its normal parameters, consequently decreasing the formation of ATP and energy for the muscle, as well as muscular contraction. This can be considered the true cause of exhaustion in athletes. Accordingly, the more lactate there is in the organism, the more hydrogen ions will be released and the greater the acidosis of the muscle, predisposing the athlete to fatigue and potential muscular injuries. Currently certain sports physiologists are trying to use measurements of seric lactate to control the intensity, volume and type of training, in search of the ideal training procedure (WILMORE & COSTILL, 2001).

Lactate

Lactate is an organic compound produced naturally by the body. The level of lactate in sedentary humans, during rest (basal), is about 1 to 2 mmol/l and in high-performance athletes between 1 and 4 mmol/l, and even as high as 30 to 35 in some cases in athletes after a strenuous effort, such as weight-lifting. The main production source of lactate is the loss of glycogen. The glycogen breaks down into pyruvate and produces energy, without using oxygen, producing anaerobic energy. When the pyruvate breaks down even more, using oxygen, more energy is produced, called aerobic energy. If the pyruvate does not break down, it generally turns into lactate. When pyruvate is produced, cells tend to use it as aerobic energy, but if the cells lose the ability to metabolize it, it chemically turns into lactate. With training, the muscular cells are able to adapt to a greater use of pyruvate and a lower production of lactate (GUYTON, 1996). The lactate produced can be used by the cells, mainly in the muscle, or transported to the extracellular environment, by means of the monocarboxylate transporter (MCT). This may spread inside other less active cells where it can be used in the aerobic metabolism, again producing ATP. Thus, the skeletal muscular tissue constitutes not only the main site of its production, but also of its removal. Furthermore, the lactate may spread to the bloodstream, where it may be consumed by the heart, liver or other muscular cells, and reconverted into pyruvate, subsequently metabolized in the Krebs cycle (by the heart) or transformed into glucose by the Cori cycle (in the liver) (GUYTON, 1996).

So most of the lactate produced is removed during constant physical activity, both by the skeletal musculature involved in the physical activity, and by the neighboring cells, besides the capture by different tissues such as kidneys, heart and liver. Lactate is not just a final product of anaerobic metabolism, but also an intermediary product of aerobic metabolism (BROOKS et al, 2000). The blood lactate level depends on the intensity and the duration of the exercise. Generally, 90 minutes are required for 95% of the lactate to be removed from the muscle after a maximum exercise, through passive recovery. Alternately, active recovery with low-intensity exercises, at about 30% of maximum VO₂, increases the removal speed of the lactate. The type, duration and intensity of active recovery vary in accordance with the athelete's sport and in accordance with his/her physical aptitude. For more skilled athletes, higher maximum VO₂ percentages are used (FOSS & KETEYIAN, 2000). LASER According to Vecoso (1993), the physical phenomenon of stimulated emission was contended by the physist Albert Einstein. In his article entitled "Zur Quantum Theories der Strahlung", published in 1916, he used the name stimulated emission for the first time, this being a rather peculiar term for the time.

The first LASER to be developed was the high power, ruby pulsed LASER, designed and built in 1960 by Prof. Maiman and his team. It was assembled at Cincinnati University in the USA in 1961 , and used for medical applications such as for detached retina and chronic ulcers (RIGAU, 1996).

The term LASER is an acronym for 'Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission Radiation'. LASER production results from an electron or a molecule which undergoes a quantum leap when it is previously stimulated, going from a low to high state of energy, and starts to emit waves in the same frequency, wavelength and direction, thus giving rise to the LASER beam, which in turn has greater power than other optical radiations that are not modified or stimulated (KITCHEN & PATRIDGE, 1991). In common light sources, light is produced by the spontaneous emission of radiation, in which the atoms and molecules are stimulated with energy, generally electric power, such that the electrons are displaced to higher energy orbits. When such electrons occupy these orbits, they become unstable and spontaneously fall to lower energy levels and so release their extra energy in the form of light photons, whose energy characteristics depend on the energy levels that the stimulated electron dropped, and the quantic energy is inversely related to the wavelength (KITCHEN, 1998). In the mid 1970s, headed by Mester, certain studies began to evaluate the effects of low level lasertherapy (LLLT) directly on human tissues, particularly to evaluate photobiostimulation of the process of healing and repair of tissues (KITCHEN, 1998).

According to El Sayed & Dyson (1990), the difference between the LASER light and the light emitted by other light sources is the monochromacity, colimation, coherence and polarization. Monochromacity is determined by the active medium that generates the LASER. Each active medium is in charge of producing a specific wavelength. Monochromacity is considered to be the main characteristic of LASER light, and also the determinant factor in photobiological interaction and in the specific therapeutic effects. Colimation is obtained due to the high degree of parallelism of the LASER beam. Coherence refers to the synchrony of light waves. Polarization refers to the direction of the light on a single plane and the vibrations of the electric field occur in a single direction (EL SAYED & DYSON, 1990). Karu (1998) described that what is more important that the light monochromacity is the length of the wave that should be in the absorption spectrum of the photoreceptor molecule.

LASER is a highly concentrated form of non-ionizing radiation, which when in contact with different tissues results, according to the LASER type, in thermal, photochemical, non-thermal and non-linear effects (LLLT) (PINHEIRO, 1998). LASERs are currently classified as non-surgical LASERs, or high intensity (HILT - High-Intensity Laser Treatment), and surgical LASERs, or low intensity (LILT - Low-Intensity Laser Treatment) (RIGAU, 1996). High- intensity LASERs can be used for cutting, vaporization and coagulation, whereas low intensity LASERs are used in correcting physiological processes, with inflammation, cicatrization, and the production of energy (ATP) (ALMEIDA & LOPES, 1999).

The difference between the various types of lasers is marked by the wavelength. The lower the wavelength, the greater its action and penetration power. Lasers may be continuous or pulse. Their power is expressed in watts (W), varying from deciwatts to megawatts and the energy is measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm2), being equal to the power multiplied by the application time (DALLAN & OLIVEIRA, 2000).

Mester (1966), held to be the father of lasertherapy as of the 1960s and 1970s, conducted a series of studies up to his death in 1984, and concluded, in the 1980s, that the use of LIL did indeed increase cellular division, also analyzing ruby LASER in the treatment of chronic ulcers. Mester et al (1985), sons of the one of the forerunners of LASER, worked on animals and patients using LLLT, promoting the use of He-Ne LASER (Helium Neon) as exemplary treatment for a series of disorders and problems in the former Soviet Union and China.

Most publications narrating in vivo use presented studies on animals and humans treated with LLLT, demonstrating its efficient action on synthesis and remodeling of collagen, number of fibroblasts, diameter and traction strength of treated wounds, feasibility of treated grafts, vascularization, vasodilation of the lymphatic system, antibacterial and immunological effect, and its systemic effects (RIGAU, 1996). However, there is no known account of equipment or processes specifically developed to induce muscular resistance in humans, and/or that have practical applicability.

Low Level LASER (LLLT). LLLT is the generic name that defines the therapeutic application of LASERs and monochromatic diodes of an intensity less than 1 W (KITCHEN, 1998). This is the type of LASER that has generally been used in physiotherapy since the mid-1980s. This kind of LASER has an appreciable thermal effect and does not produce cutaneous injuries when applied correctly, and its use is based on photochemical effects. However, under no circumstances should it come into direct contact with the eyes of the person applying it or the patient (VEQOSO, 1993). The electromagnetic spectrum most used in therapy employing LLLT is between the wavelengths measuring 630nm to 1300nm, including visible red light and a near section of the infrared spectrum. This part of the spectrum is called optical window for biological tissues, due to the fact that this range is capable of greater penetration into these tissues (BRUGNERA & PINHEIRO, 1998). Oron et al (2001) state that LLLT can be managed mainly by three types of wavelength, including He-Ne (Helium-Neon, 632.8nm to 670nm), this being the first to be used in physiotherapy and most used today, As-Ga-Al (Gallium Arsenate and Aluminum, 645 to 850nm) and Ga-As (Gallium Arsenate, 904nm).

Physiological and Biological Effects of therapy with LLLT. Therapy with LLLT has mainly been used to treat algias, muscular damage, acute inflammation, cicatrization of wounds and ulcers, processes for repairing tendon tissue, muscles and bones through cellular proliferation, angiogenesis (effect of normalization of circulation), and nervous conduction stimuli (KITCHEN, 1998). The effects of radiation on the tissues depend on the absorption of its energy and the transformation thereof into certain biological processes. Both the length of the wave and the tissue characteristics form part of the phenomena that regulate the absorption, because the effect on the live structure depends on the quantity of energy deposited and its penetration, and the time over which it is absorbed (LASER power).

The absorption of light by tissues may result in four processes: photothermic, photomechanic, photochemical and photoelectric. Jointly with the photochemical effects can be included biostimulation, which is the effect of the light on the molecular and biochemical processes that normally occur in the tissues (BRUGNERA & PINHEIRO, 1998). The penetration of light in the tissue is mainly determined by the wavelength, but also by the power of the apparatus, dispersion and absorption. It is believed that the peak of penetration in the tissue occurs in the spectral interval of the near infrared, between wavelengths of 600nm to 1200nm, due to the weak absorption by water, the main component of the biological structure (BAXTER, 1997). The energy deposited in the tissues produces a primary or direct action, with local and spot effects, such as the stimulation to release histamine, serotonin, bradicinin, ATP synthesis inside the cells, originating and accelerating mytoses, enzymatic acceleration, increase in the number of leucocytes and fagocitary activity, increase in the hematic stream by capillary and arterial vasodilatation, fibrinolytic and cicatricial action. (VEQOSO, 1993). The indirect action of the LASER stimulates microcirculation, as a consequence of the specific action that it exerts on the pre-capillary sphincter in the union of the capillaries of the arterioles and venules, paralyzing and leaving it constantly open to stimulate the production of histamine. This opening allows better interchange between the arterial and venous blood. As a consequence of these effects, increased vasodilation of the arterioles and capillaries occurs, improving zonal trophism, derived from the increase in nutrients, oxygen and the elimination of catabolytes, and also brings defensive elements, promoting anti-inflammatory action (AGNE, 2005).

Baxter et al (1994) detected significant effects on the nervous conduction of the median and superficial radial nerves, with direct application of LASER on the skin of the nerve pathway, concluding that these effects appear to depend critically on the dose and speed of repetition of the LASER source pulse. Yaakobi et al (1996) studied the effects of low-intensity He-Ne LASER in healing the cortical region of the tibia in mice, concluding that LASER increases twofold the restoration speed of the bone tissue. Brugnera & Pinheiro (1998) described that the photophysical and photoelectric effect of Low Level LASER are processes that promote changes in the membrane potentials, increasing the ATP synthesis, lhsan (2005) and Maegawa et al (2000) found significant evidence of increased arterial and collateral circulation in injured tissues after the application of LLLT. LLLT (He-Ne, 632.8nm) promotes local vasodilation and angiogenesis, leaving the tissue in a well vascularized recovery process, determining a greater influx of oxygen and accelerated tissue restoration process (GARCIA, 1992).

Recently, more experimental and clinical works have been carried out with the application of low-level laser in different situations. (Aimbire et al., 2006a, b and c; Lopes-Martins et al, 2006 a and b; Bjordal et al, 2006 a, b and c; Lopes-Martins et al., 2005; Aimbire et al., 2005; Albertini et al., 2002, 2004; Santos et al., 2002a and b). During this time, it was possible to characterize the effect of Low Level LASER therapy in the inflammatory reaction of paw edema, pleurisy and dermatitis, hyperreactivity of the airways in rats and mice, and Achilles tendon tendonitis in humans.

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L, PACHECO MT, CASTRO-FAR IA-N ETO HC, CHAVANTES MC, LABAT RM, LOPES-MARTINS RA. Low level laser therapy partially restores trachea muscle relaxation response in rats with tumor necrosis factor alpha-mediated smooth airway muscle dysfunction. Lasers Surg Med. 2006 Sep;38(8):773-8. AIMBIRE F, LOPES-MARTINS RA, CASTRO-FARIA-NETO HC,

ALBERTINI R, CHAVANTES MC, PACHECO MT, LEONARDO PS, IVERSEN W, BJORDAL JM. Low-level laser therapy can reduce lipopolysaccharide- induced contractile force dysfunction and TNF-alpha levels in rat diaphragm muscle. Lasers Med Sci. 2006 Dec;21(4):238-44. ALBERTINI R, AIMBIRE FS, CORREA Fl, RIBEIRO W, COGO

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ALBERTINI, R., ISHIDA, F.C., RIBEIRO, W., COGO, J. C, ANTUNES, E, TEIXEIRA, S., DE NUCCI, G, FARAI-NETO, H. C. C, AIMBIRE F. S.C., ZANGARO, R. A., LOPES-MARTINS, R. A. B. Analise do efeito do low intensity LASER (As-Ga-Al) no modelo de inflamacao de edema de pata em ratos.. Fisioterapia Brasil. Rio de Janeiro: , v.3, n.1 , p.05 - 15, 2002.

BJORDAL JM, JOHNSON Ml, IVERSEN V, AIMBIRE F, LOPES- MARTINS RA. Photoradiation in acute pain: a systematic review of possible mechanisms of action and clinical effects in randomized placebo-controlled trials. Photomed Laser Surg. 2006 Apr;24(2): 158-68. BJORDAL JM, LOPES-MARTINS RA₁ BOGEN B, JOHNSON M. Physical treatments have valuable role in osteoarthritis. BMJ. 2006 Apr 8;332(7545):853.

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B. LOPES-MARTINS, R. A. B. Effect of Low Power Ga-Al-As Laser Radiation

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LOPES-MARTINS RA, ALBERTINI R, LOPES-MARTINS PS, DE CARVALHO FA, NETO HC, IVERSEN W, BJORDAL JM. Steroid receptor antagonist mifepristone inhibits the anti-inflammatory effects of photoradiation. Photomed Laser Surg. 2006 Apr;24(2): 197-201.

LOPES-MARTINS RA, ALBERTINI R, MARTINS PS, BJORDAL JM, FARIA NETO HC Spontaneous effects of low-level laser therapy (650nm) in acute inflammatory mouse pleurisy induced by carrageenan. Photomed Laser Surg. 2005 Aug;23(4):377-81.

Lastly, and more recently, Lopes-Martins, in 2006 (LOPES- MARTINS, R. A. B et al. The effect of Low Level LASER Irradiation (As-Ga-Al, 655nm) On Skeletal Muscle Fatigue Induced by Electrical Stimulation in Rats. Journal of Applied Physiology, v. 101 , n. 7, p. 283 - 321 , 2006), applied LLLT (As-Ga-Al, 655nm) in 4 different doses (0.5 J/cm², 1.0 J/cm² and 2.5 J/cm²) and a control group (0 J/cm²), respectively timed at 32, 80 and 160 seconds with a fixed density strength of 31.25 mW/ J/cm², directly on the central part of the dissected front tibial muscle of 32 mice, concluding that Low Level LASER can positively interfere in the reduction of speed of the installation of fatigue, maintaining the strength levels for a longer time and reducing muscular damage after exhaustive exercises. There is in fact a dependent dose relationship, where very large doses may cause inverse effects, such as the increase in speed of fatigue induction. However, said studies, besides being conducted by the present inventors, were limited to experiments on mice, such that the results are not usable for humans in view of the risks. Additionally, to-date there is no known account of equipment or processes specifically developed for the induction of muscular resistance in humans, and/or that have a practical applicability. In short, it is within the objectives of the present invention to develop and provide an equipment and a process to induce muscular resistance, both using the application of Low Level LASER (LLLT) operating in the visible and infrared spectra under controlled conditions.

Summary of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide an equipment that helps increase muscular resistance, said equipment comprising at least one source of Low Level LASER (LLLT) and means of controlling LASER output.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a process of inducing muscular resistance based on the controlled application of Low Level LASER (LLLT).

It is another object of the present invention to provide a process to reduce the post-exercise levels of creatine kinase.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a process to reduce the post-exercise levels of lactate.

It is another object of the present invention to provide the use of Low Level LASER (LLLT) to: induce muscular resistance; reduce the post- exercise levels of creatine kinase; and/or reduce the post-exercise levels of lactate.

These and other objects of the present invention will be better understood and appreciated by reading the detailed description of the invention and the appended claims. Brief description of the figures Figure 1 shows the lactate concentrations of the 1^st phase (p<0.05) and (p<0.01).

Figure 2 shows the lactate concentrations of the 2^nd phase (p<0.01). Figure 3 shows placebo group repetitions (p>0.05).

Figure 4 shows LASER group repetitions (p<0.01).

Figure 5 shows 1^st phase repetitions (p>0.05).

Figure 6 shows 2^nd phase repetitions (p<0.05).

Figure 7 shows the placebo group times (p>0.05). Figure 8 shows the LASER group times (p<0.01).

Figure 9 shows the 1^st phase times (p>0.05).

Figure 10 shows the 2^nd phase times (p<0.05).

Figure 11 shows the time flowchart of the study.

Figure 12 shows laser irradiation points (in white circles) used for active LLLT or placebo LLLT.

Figure 13 shows Muscle Work performed by the volleyball athletes during the Wingate test.

Figure 14 shows Creatine Kinase levels before exercises were performed. Figure 15 shows Changes on Creatine Kinase levels after exercises were performed.

Figure 16 shows Muscle Work performed by the football athletes during the Wingate test.

Figure 17 shows Blood lactate levels before performed exercises. Figure 18 shows Changes on blood lactate levels after performed exercises.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention provides an equipment and a process to increase muscular resistance, both using the application of Low Level LASER (LLLT). Various kinds of Low Level LASER can be used to carry out the present invention, such as, for example, As-Ga-Al He-Ne and As-Ga, among others. The present description comprises preferred examples LBPs of As-Ga- Al. The inventors used various experimental approaches and tested varied configurations of equipment/processes for applying LLLT during said development. Accordingly, tests in humans in randomized double-blinded clinical trials were carried out as described below. Example 1

The initial phase (1^st day) consisted of on the day when the athletes carried out the muscular fatigue induction protocol without receiving any kind of application (LASER or Placebo). The second and final phase (2^nd day) was carried out exactly a week after the execution of the first phase, the day on which after measuring the basal lactate, the athletes received an application (LASER or Placebo), and thereafter (1 minute after the application of the final point) carried out the muscular fatigue induction protocol. The sample comprised 12 athletes from the adult volleyball team of UCS, all male, with an average age of 22.10 (± 3.55), average body mass of 90.09 Kg (±10.74), average height of 195.42cm (± 8.23), who agreed to take part in the study and fell into the study profile, according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Before carrying out the study, the individuals were randomly allocated into two different groups: LASER Group: comprised of 6 athletes with an average age of

22.06 (± 4.40), an average body mass of 85.38 Kg (± 12.91) and average height of 192.50cm (± 6.53).

Placebo Group: also comprised of 6 athletes with an average age of 22.15 (± 2.89), average body mass of 94.80 Kg (± 5.83) and average height of 198.33cm (± 9.27).

Inclusion Criteria

Adult, male, high-performance category athletes who have been doing the sport for at least 2 years (independently of category), aged between 18 and 35, who have attending the training programs and team activities with a frequency equal or over 80%, including physical trainings, fundaments and tactics, also being in the appropriate training period (within the evaluations) for the study (pure muscular strength training). Instrumentation

In order to provide a stable support for the upper member (elbow), used in the muscular fatigue induction phase, a 45°-sloping Scott bench was provided, manufactured by the company Ajustemaq Equipamentos para Musculagao LTD A^®.

The equipment of the present invention is an improvement over currently existing LASER equipment, the improvement of the invention consisting of the incorporation of control means specifically designed to produce the effect of the invention, namely, the induction of muscular resistance. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the application of LLLT on the test group was carried out using a portable LASER unit with a wavelength of 655nm (As- Ga-Al), in the visible range of red light, with a single canon, having an output power of 50 mW, manufactured by Handy LASER S/A (Germany). A conventional metric measuring tape (cm units) was used to measure the application points of the LLLT. A Nike^® watch was used to time the muscular fatigue protocol. The results evaluation was based on two blood samples taken from each athlete to verify the concentrations of blood lactate per day of trial, prior to (basal) and 3 minutes after carrying out the muscular fatigue induction protocol. The skin of the patient's index finger of the non-dominating hand was scrubbed with spirit alcohol and cotton wool before collecting the blood samples using the Lancetador Accu-Chek Soft Clix® and disposable lancets of the same brand and origin to collect the material. The collected blood went directly to BM Lactate^® reagent strips and then placed inside the Accutrend Lactate Portable Lactate Analyzer^®, which is an accurate and reliable instrument to measure the lactate concentration level of the analyzed blood. A codified master tape was initially placed in the analysis apparatus and after 5 seconds it was possible to insert the other tapes of the batch (total of 25). After being inserted, each reactant strip took 1 minute to show the lactate concentration. The blood collection was carried out by a nurse and subsequently analyzed by a physical education teacher, who was unaware of the allocation of volunteers in the 2 groups studied. Embramaq brand disposable latex gloves were used in all procedures.

Procedures o Maximum Load Test: the athletes underwent a period of readaptation and muscular resistance for two weeks (return from vacation). At the end of this preparation period, a maximum load test was performed (repetition with maximum load comprising total movement amplitude of elbow flexion-extension) to evaluate the strength of the brachial biceps muscle, unilaterally, on the Scott bench using weights, in order to define a load percentage (75%) to be used in the muscular fatigue induction protocol for each specific athlete. o Period of Evaluation: the analysis and execution of the established protocols were carried out at a same physiological moment of the athletes, with due regard for the muscular training phase in question (pure muscular strength training - starting with 75% of maximum load). Both evaluations were performed on the same day of the week (Monday), in the same period of the day (between 08:30 and 11 :00), with the athletes carrying out the protocol in the same sequential order. Prior to performing the two evaluations, the athletes did no sports training for 48 hours. o Fatigue Induction Protocol: prior to carrying out this protocol, each athlete performed individual muscle stretching (two 60-second repetitions), involving the entire musculature of the upper members, finishing by stretching the flexion musculature of the elbow. This stretch protocol was based on a study carried out by Viveiros et al (2004), the results of which suggest that the best effects occurred with the stretch time period was over 60 seconds, independently of the number of series performed. Immediately after the stretching, the athlete underwent the evaluation of the basal lactate and then moved on to the Scott bench where, once seated with knees and hips bent at 90°, with individual resistance load at the protocol of 75% of maximum load (estimate based on the work by Garcia et al (2004), who compared the conduction speed of the action and muscular strength potentials by muscular fatigue induction using three loads, respectively 25%, 50% and 75% of maximum load, noting an abrupt drop both in the conduction speed and the muscular strength, principally using the 75% load. These results were mainly shown by a fast drop in muscular pH and a precocious accumulation of lactate in the muscle), performed elbow flexions using the non-dominating hand with a weight, at maximum speed (individual for each athlete), until the onset of muscular exhaustion and when the athlete was no longer able to reach the 90° mark (using goniometers fixed to the Scott bench to control the angle), with movement amplitude for flexing the elbow (point of closure of the muscular fatigue protocol). The number of repetitions was counted visually by a single analyst and the task duration time was measured by another analyst in order to avoid any time-counting error. The activity began with the weight in the athlete's non-dominating hand at maximum elbow extension (180°). o Cryotherapy: after collecting the lactate subsequent to muscular fatigue induction, the athletes received a preventive application of cryotherapy (application of ice in the direction of the muscular fibers) on the member used in the study, with the aim of diminishing potential pain as a result of the muscular fatigue induction protocol and reducing the recovery time of the muscles in question (whose lactate concentration increased). These times and functionalities are verified by Nunez (1997). o Collection of Blood and Measuring the Concentration of Blood Lactate: prior to the muscular fatigue induction protocol (basal lactate), and three minutes after the end of the protocol, blood samples were collected (the athlete sat for three minutes in passive recovery). It is important to point out that this amount of time does not represent the fatigue per se nor its peak, but the concentration of lactate in the blood at a standardized moment, in other words, the muscular lactate may not be elevated at the time of verification of its blood concentration, since the lactate in the blood represents the balance between the formation of lactic acid in the muscle, its breakdown into lactate and H+ and the removal thereof. So determining the concentration of lactate is no more than a standardized moment for blood collection. o Applying LLLT: Prior the beginning the evaluation of the best control conditions for applying LLLT, the equipment was tested for certification of the correct output power (50 mW). On the first day of trials, the muscular fatigue induction protocol was carried out on all athletes, without prior application of LLLT (either in effective or placebo form). The following week (second day / phase of the evaluation), LASER therapy was effectively applied to half the sample (LASER group), allocated randomly. Placebo form LASER therapy (without real application) was applied on the other half of the sample (Placebo group). For the group received effective application of LLLT, a direct skin contact method was used, employing Energy of 5 J (100 seconds per point), on 4 different points, respectively at 1/5, 2/5, 3/5 and 4/5 of the previously measured distance between the acromion and the articular line of the elbow, that is to say, the LASER was applied to the muscular belly, in direct contact with the skin, on four (4) different points. The same procedures were adopted for the Placebo group, but without effective LASER application. The effective and/or placebo application occurred after evaluating the basal lactate, and 60 seconds after applying the last point, the individuals performed the fatigue induction protocol. All the athletes received the application of LLLT (both the LASER group and the PLACEBO group) in "blind" fashion (without knowing whether they were effectively receiving LASER applications), using a blindfold over their face (justified for the athlete's individual protection). Only the person in charge of applying the LASER was aware of the allocation of the groups, and this person did not have access to the data obtained (lactate index, number of repetitions and execution time) before the end of the study. Ethical Aspects

The parties involved in these trials were duly clarified on the aspects of participation. Those who agreed to take part signed a term of free and mindful consent, allowing the data resulting from these trials to be used and published. It was also clarified that the trials do not imply cost or remuneration for the participants.

The study was submitted and approved by the Committee of Ethics and Research (CEP), as determined by Resolution 196/96 of the National Board of Health (CNS).

Data Analysis

The variables analyzed were the execution time of the protocol until the onset of fatigue (t), the number of repetitions performed (n) and the concentrations of basal lactate and after the muscular fatigue induction protocol on the two days of testing. The figures were expressed in terms of average and standard deviation. For the intragroup analysis, the t-student matched bi- cascading test was used, and the same test was used for the intergroups analysis, but not matched and also bi-cascading. In all cases, the level of relevance accepted was p<0.05. The table below shows the concentrations of basal lactate and after induction for each athlete of the two groups on the 1^st day of trials. Figure 1 demonstrates this comparison through the averages obtained by the two groups.

Table 2 and figure 2 show the concentrations of lactate obtained during the second phase of the study, both for the values obtained individually, and in the comparison between the averages obtained by the groups.

By effectively applying LLLT (LASER group), it was possible to obtain an increase in the number of repetitions in every sample (n=6), in an intergroup comparison between the 1^st day (without application) and the 2^nd day (effective application of LLLT), representing an increase of 40.8% in the total number of repetitions of every sample (LASER group). In the Placebo group, an increase in the number of repetitions in 5 out of 6 athletes of the group was obtained, representing just a 16.2% increase in the total number of repetitions of the group.

Figures 3 and 4 present an intragroup comparison (day 1 x day 2), both of the PLACEBO group and the LASER group. Figures 5 and 6 provide an intergroup comparison (Placebo Group X LASER Group), respectively on the 1^st and 2^nd days of the trial.

By effectively applying LLLT (LASER group), it was possible to obtain an increase in the execution time of the FMI protocol in every sample (n=6), in an intragroup comparison between the 1^st day (without application) and the 2^nd day (effective application of LLLT), representing an increase of 29.51% in the total time, in seconds, of every sample (LASER group). In the Placebo group, an increase in the execution time in 3 out of 6 athletes of the group was noted. However, in the total times of sample (n=6, placebo application, 2^nd day), it was not possible to obtain a 1% increase in time compared to the 1^st day of trials.

Figures 7 and 8 present an intragroup comparison (day 1 X day 2) of the times taken in the muscular fatigue induction protocol, both for the PLACEBO group and the LASER group. Figures 9 and 10 reveal an intergroup comparison (Placebo Group X LASER Group) between the time taken by the athletes during the process of inducing muscular fatigue, respectively on the 1^st and 2^nd days of tests.

The results indicate that the prior irradiation treatment with LLLT to the process to induce muscular fatigue retards the muscular fatigue process, increases the execution time of the inductive process and also increases the number of repetitions performed by the athlete during this period of time (intergroup / LASER X placebo comparison). Both the concentration of lactate basal as well as the lactate post-inductive process, in an intergroup evaluation (LASER group X placebo group) and intragroup (between the 1^st and the 2^nd phase of the research), remained very close, practically without any differences, and do not represent relevant statistics (p> 0.05). It is believed that this increase, both in time and the number of repetitions, is due to a greater and more continuous ATP entry, in the form of energy, caused by the number of calibers of the vessels and consequently of blood irrigation (increase in microcirculation) in specific sites near to where the LLLT was applied. It is known that the circulatory system has the function of offering the body tissues sufficient blood to maintain the energy demands (oxygen and nutrients), the ATP being the end product. The LLLT acts directly on the cellular organelles, mainly on the mytocondrias and membranes (increasing their activity), generating increased ATP synthesis, by way of active sites, by specific cellular photoreceptors. Accordingly, the LASER accelerates the process of glycolysis and phosphorylative oxidization in the short term.

The results of the tests of the present invention confirm the premise that the prior results on animals are not directly applicable in humans, such that the development of equipment and/or a process to induce muscular resistance in humans requires an evaluation of the precise control conditions so that the respective control means are incorporated to said equipment and/or processes, that comprise the core of the present invention. In this context, it is worth while highlighting that the control means are directly related to the dosage provided, and the results obtained in animals are not applicable to the human muscle (brachial biceps), which besides larger and physiologically different, was not disclosed in the present invention, but withheld inside the epithelial layers and a potential conjunctive and fatty tissue.

Although a full understanding of the mechanisms involved in the remarkable results obtained in the present invention is not essential for the efficiency demonstrated herein, certain scientific hypotheses set forth below deserve attention with a view to future improvements. The maintenance of the lactate levels (basal and 3 minutes after) could be explained by the non- standardization of the executive time of the induction protocol or by the increased in the physical work (number of repetitions X execution time), provided by the irradiation effects of LLLT. Once the athlete increases his energy input (with LLLT irradiation), also increasing his execution time and number of repetitions, causes a retardation of muscular fatigue, but not limiting the production and run-off of lactate, since this continues to be produced, in an equal gradient, for a more prolonged time (LLLT providing more energy), by the increase in the execution time of the induction process and the respective increase in the number of repetitions. It was proven that despite the increase in execution time and in the greater number of repetitions (compared to the test without application of LLLT) and consequently of the muscular work, the values of lactate concentrations measured were maintained after the fatigue induction protocol, leading to the conclusion that by virtue of the increase in blood microcirculation, besides the greater input of energy (ATP), there was an increase in the removal rate of the catabolytes, particularly of the lactate, allowing muscular contractibility to occur for an effectively longer time. The results of the present invention allow us to conclude that the LLLT, under the controlled conditions of the present invention, provides increased aptitude for muscular work (under the action of ATP, caliber of the vessels and/or micro circulation), preventing the lactate concentration gradient to become very uneven (relationship with and without the application of LLLT), by the increased withdrawal of the catabolytes and by the increase in re-use thereof. In other words, besides providing a greater work load, the LLLT also compensates in the withdrawal and reabsorption of its residues (by the same physiological effects that cause the increase of its work - ratio of time and repetitions). The parameters of the LLLT were adjusted for application to the brachial biceps muscle, in accordance with the photobiostimulation window of the human tissues, since the clinical results of LLLT are based on the athermal action, that is, on the interaction of light with the tissue, through its chemical effects.

In these preferred embodiments of the present invention, Energy of 5 J per application point was used in the procedures, totaling 20 Joules of Energy delivered to the tissue, taking into account the biological barriers that might prevent part of the absorption of this density, also with due regard for the physiological phenomena of transmission and diffusion, which dissipate part of the energy located in the surrounding areas. The form of application with direct contact was another way of avoiding any factor that might further prevent the absorption process, such as the reflexion mechanism, due to the difference in the refraction indices of contact zone.

The choice of As-Ga-Al LASER (655nm), with beams inside the visible/red light is due to the fact that this kind of LASER is cheaper, more practical, and easier to apply and especially because the irradiation has the characteristics of monochromacity, coherence and colimation with a very small range variation, practically negligible, or about 1nm. This allows more accurate responses to be obtained, because it is absorbed by specific structures and because it is within the sensitivity limits of power and energy to promote harmless biological effects.

An important factor in validating the results of the present invention was the evaluation of the athletes in the two phases of the study, in a same training period of the team in question (on the same day of the week with an interval of 7 days), discarding any possibility of gain in strength, resistance or any other change in the physiological parameters of the athletes caused by any change in the training programs on or off the court. The climactic conditions were also very similar (outdoors), even though the site of application (indoors) was air-conditioned (25° C).

The results also enable the establishment of a relationship of applying the LLLT As-Ga-Al (655nm), in the Energy of 5 J per point with the retardation of the muscular fatigue induction process, since the athletes submitted to LASER studies not only presented an increase in the execution time, but also in the number of repetitions carried out and the maintenance of lactate concentrations (basal and post-induction). With the action of LLLT, through the increase in microcirculation (caused by the increase of the caliber of the vessels and angiogenesis / collateral circulation) it can be presumed that there is an increase in the flux of O₂ and nutrients to the muscle, as well as an increase in the lactate removal rate (breaking the elevation of its blood concentrations and also delaying the rate of muscular acidosis - the main factor responsible for inhibiting the action/muscular contraction potentials), consequently causing a delay in the process of muscular fatigue.

The application of Low Level LASER As-Ga-Al in brachial biceps, with a wavelength of 655nm and Energy of 5 J per application point (in 4 different points totaling 20 J of Energy), performed before carrying out the muscular fatigue induction protocol, provided athletes an increased number of complete repetitions and an increase in their performance time of this protocol, delaying the process of muscular fatigue (evaluated by the loss of muscular contraction vis-a-vis the resistance employed). Moreover, the levels of lactate remained very similar, proving that the application of LASER provided an increase in the withdrawal of catabolytic residues and a longer upholding of the input of energetic substrate to the athletes, since the number of repetitions and time increased considerably.

Example 2 Tests on the 830nm Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) applied before the exercise and its increase the skeletal muscle recovery after high intensity exercises.

Previous animal and clinical studies have indicated that LLLT can reduce oxidative stress and delay the onset of skeletal muscle fatigue. Accordingly, in this embodiment of the invention twenty athletes (nine male professional volleyball players and eleven male young football players) entered a cross-over randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled trial, in two sessions with a one-week interval. All subjects performed the Wingate test, with a load of 7.5% of their body weight. Before the exercise test the subjects randomly received active LLLT or placebo LLLT treatment. Active LLLT (830nm wavelength, 100 mW output, spot size 0.0028cm²) or an identical placebo LLLT was delivered to five points in recto femoralis humeri muscle (bilaterally). The Muscle Work was obtained with the Wingate test by a blinded observer for both athletes (volleyball and football), the blood lactate concentration was measured before and at 3, 10 and 15 minutes after exercise tests for the football athletes, and Creatine Kinase levels was measured before and 3 minutes after the exercise test for the volleyball athletes.

Results: The Muscle Work obtained in the exercise tests not showed difference (p>0.05) between the treatments (active LLLT or placebo LLLT) for both athletes groups (volleyball or football). For the volleyball athletes the change in Creatine Kinase levels after exercise was significant lower (p=0.0133) with active LLLT (2.52 U.L^"1 +/- 7.04) compared with placebo LLLT (28.49 U.L^'1 +/- 22.62). For the football athletes the change in blood lactate levels at 15 minutes post-exercise was significant lower (p=0.0093) at the active LLLT (8.55 mmol.L^"1 +/- 2.14) compared with placebo LLLT (10.52 mmol.L^"1 +/- 1.82). These results allow one to conclude that 830nm LLLT seem to increase the skeletal muscle recovery in athletes, decreasing the muscle damage and increasing the blood lactate removal after high intensity exercises.

All athletes performed the same exercise test, but for the volleyball athletes the Creatine Kinase levels was analysed and for the football athletes the blood lactate levels and removal was analysed. Athletes with the following characteristics were excluded from the tests: those with any previous musculoskeletal injury to the hip, knee or ankle regions; those participating in less than 80% of the regularly scheduled physical training and football sessions for the football team, or volleyball sessions for the volleyball team; and players using any kind of nutritional supplements or pharmacological agents.

Period of Evaluation: Care was taken in obtaining standardization in the execution of the exercise protocols. Exercises were performed with a standard sitting position at approximately the same time of the day (to control for the circadian rhythm). The performance and evaluations of exercises were performed in two sessions (day 1 and day 8) at the same day of the week (Monday) in the same period of the day (Between 08:30 and 11 :30). Any hard physical activity was not permitted in the weekend before testing. The timeline of the experiment is shown in Figure 11.

Fatigue Protocol: At the first session (day 1) and second session (day 8) of the study, basal blood measurements (Creatine Kinase or Lactate) were obtained for each subject. Immediately after this, all twenty subjects were submitted to a series of muscle stretching exercises involving all the major muscles of the lower extremities (one round of 60 seconds for each muscle group) and finishing with the extensor muscles of the knee. Then, each subject was seated in the cycloergometry, with the foot fixed to the pedals. The Wingate tests consisted in perform cycling with maximal speed during 30 seconds with a load of 7.5% of the athletes' body weight. The researchers that helped in the tests were blinded to the treatment and the participants' situation allocation (LLLT or placebo). LLLT Protocol At both sessions (day 1 and day 8), the participants either received a single treatment of active LLLT or placebo LLLT (both with 830nm Thera Lase; DMC^® Sao Carlos, SP, Brazil) according to the result of the randomization procedure. Active LLLT or placebo LLLT was administered after the stretching regimen, but immediately before the exercise fatigue test. The active LLLT and placebo LLLT were administered by a therapist (MR). Blinding was maintained by the participants', the therapist^'s and the observers' use of opaque goggles during active and placebo LLLT. In addition, the 830nm infrared laser wavelength is invisible, and the laser was not turned on before the tip of the laser probe was put in contact with the skin over the recto femoralis muscle. The recto femoralis muscle belly was divided in five irradiation points evenly distributed along the ventral side of the muscle belly (bilaterally), in order to deliver LLLT irradiation to most of the muscle belly, as shown in figure 12.

The irradiation was performed in contact mode with the laser probe held stationary with slight pressure at a 90-degree angle on each of the five treatment points. Each subject received two treatment session (active LLLT or placebo LLLT randomly). After active LLLT or placebo LLLT had been administered, participants were immediately repositioned and they started with the fatigue exercise protocol within an interval of 180 seconds. Blood Samples and Creatine Kinase Concetrations (for the

Volleyball Athletes)

The muscle damage was indirectly measured in the volleyball athletes by the levels of Creatine Kinase (CK). In order to measure blood Creatine Kinase, following aseptic cleaning ventral side of the dominant arm, a qualified nurse (blinded to group allocation) took one sample before, another blood sample at three minutes after the exercises were completed. The blood analysis was performed using infrared spectrophotometry, and analyzed in a blinded manner.

Blood Samples and Lactate Concentration (for the Football Athletes) In order to measure blood lactate concentrations in the football athletes, following aseptic cleaning of the finger, a qualified nurse (blinded to group allocation) took one sample before, another blood sample at three, ten and fifteen minutes after the exercises were completed. The finger, from which the blood sample was taken, was the dominant side arm. The Accu-Chek Soft Clix^® lancets were used and the samples were immediately analyzed with the portable Accutrend Lactate^® analyzer in a blinded manner.

Statistical Analysis

Group means and their respective standard deviations were used for statistical analysis. A two-sided paired t-test was used to test if there was a significant difference in change between active LLLT or placebo LLLT. The significance level was set at p<0.05.

RESULTS

Volleyball Players Nine healthy male professional volleyball players were recruited, who met the inclusion criteria. Their average age was 20.67 (+/- 2.96) years old, and their body weight was a mean of 91.67 kg (+/- 7.84) and body height was 195.33cm (+/- 6.28).

The Wingate test (performed immediately after active LLLT or placebo LLLT irradiation) revealed a non-significant difference in the Muscle

Work between the active LLLT (21888.31 J +/- 2062.98) and placebo LLLT

(22429.79 J +/- 2842.71) with p=0.3583. The results are summarized in Figure

13.

As shown in figure 14, the subjects presented similar Creatine Kinase levels at pre-exercise test before both treatments, before the active LLLT the athletes had mean 108.64 U. L^"1 (+/- 33.68) and before placebo LLLT 107.72 U.L^"1 (+/- 41.12) (p=0.7737).

The results of the Creatine Kinase tests post-exercise showed that the active LLLT treatment promoted a lower change (2.52 U. L^'1 +/- 7.04) in the muscle damage compared to placebo LLLT (28.49 U. L^'1 +/- 22.62) (p=0.0133). The results are summarized in Figure 15. Football Players

Eleven healthy male young football players were recruited, who met the inclusion criteria. Their average age was 16.18 (+/- 0.75) years old, and their body weight was a mean of 66.82 kg (+/- 6.68) and body height was 175.82cm (+/- 5.83).

The Wingate test (performed immediately after active LLLT or placebo LLLT irradiation) revealed a non-significant difference in the Muscle Work between the active LLLT (16214.97 J +/- 1639.88) and placebo LLLT (16289.21 J +/- 1700.34) with p=0.8681. The results are summarized in Figure 16.

As shown in Figure 17, in both treatments the subjects presented similar blood lactate levels at pre-exercise tests, with mean of 2.52 mmoI.L^"1 (+/- 0.52) in active LLLT and 2.24 mmol.L^"1 (+/- 0.33) without statistical difference (p=0.1825). The results of the blood lactate tests showed that both treatments increased their blood lactate levels from baseline assessments to post-exercise assessments. There were however no significant difference between the two treatments on the change in lactate levels at 3 (active LLLT 10.75 mmol.L^"1 +/- 2.11 ; placebo LLLT 11.42 mmol.L^"1 +/- 2.89; p=0.4383) and 10 minutes after exercise (active LLLT 10.63 mmol.L^"1 +/- 2.17; placebo LLLT 11.04 mmol.L^'1 +/- 1.42; p=0.3863), but have for this outcome lower levels of blood lactate at 15 minutes after exercise in favor of active LLLT with mean of 8.55 mmol.L^"1 (+/- 2.14) and mean of 10.52 mmol.L^"1 (+/- 1.82) for placebo LLLT (p=0.0093). The results are summarized in Figure 18. Persons skilled in the art will immediately perceive the important benefits arising from the use of the present invention. Variations in the embodiment of the inventive concept exemplified herein are considered to be comprised within the spirit of the invention and the appended claims.

Claims

ClaimsEquipment and Process to Retard Muscular Fatigue or Increase Muscular Resistance to Fatigue

1. Equipment to increase muscular resistance characterized by comprising:

- at least one source of Low Level LASER, with a wavelength in the visible or infrared range;

- means to adjust or vary the Energy to be delivered to the biological tissue and the Power; and - means to control the irradiation time.

2. Equipment, according to claim 1 , characterized wherein said LASER source is As-Ga-Al, He-Ne, As-Ga or combinations thereof.

3. Process to increase muscular resistance or retard muscular fatigue characterized by comprising direct application on the human muscle whose resistance is intended to be increased, of at least one source of Low Level LASER, with wavelength varying from the visible range to infrared, the source having means to adjust the energy and Power and means to control the irradiation time.

4. Process, according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that said increase in muscular resistance or delay in fatigue is applicable in situations of: athletic performance and post-exercise recovery; chronic back pain; neck pain; fibromyalgia or combinations thereof.

5. Process to decrease the post-exercise creatine kinasese characterized by comprising direct application on the human muscle of at least one source of Low Level LASER, with wavelength varying from the visible range to the infrared, the source having means to adjust the energy and Power and means to control the irradiation time.

6. Process to decrease the seric levels of post-exercise lactate characterized by comprising direct application on the human muscle of at least one source of Low Level LASER, with a wavelength varying from the visible range to the infrared, the source having means to adjust the energy and Power and means to control the irradiation time.

7. Process, according to claims 5-6, characterized by the fact that the conditions for applying said LASER are: wavelength of 830nm; output power of 100 mW; irradiation area of 0.0028cm².

8. Use of: at least one source of Low Level LASER with wavelength in the visible or infrared range; means to adjust or vary the Energy to be delivered to the biological tissue and the Power; and means to control the irradiation time, characterized by being for the treatment to increase muscular resistance or retard athletic performance fatigue and post-exercise recovery situations; chronic back pain; neck pain; fibromialgia, or combinations thereof.

9. Use of: at least one source of Low Level LASER with wavelength in the visible or infrared range; means to adjust or vary the Energy to be delivered to the biological tissue and the Power; and means to control the irradiation time, characterized by being for preventive or prophylactic treatment in order to decrease post-exercise creatine kinase.

10. Use of: at least one source of Low Level LASER with wavelength in the visible or infrared range; means to adjust or vary the Energy to be delivered to the biological tissue and the Power; and means to control the irradiation time, characterized by being for preventive or prophylactic treatment in order to decrease post-exercise seric levels.