Laser light may speed up recovery for elite soldiers

NCT ID NCT06380179

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether shining a low-level laser on the thighs after exercise helps Special Forces soldiers recover faster and perform better. Twenty-nine soldiers received either real or fake laser treatment three times a week for three weeks. Researchers measured their jump performance, muscle strength, pain, fatigue, and sleep using special devices and questionnaires. The goal was to see if this simple, noninvasive therapy could become a regular part of military training.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Low-level laser therapy (photobiomodulation) applied to the thigh muscles
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a simple, noninvasive way to help athletes and soldiers recover faster after intense training.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early study in a very specific group (Special Forces soldiers), so results may not apply to the general public. The treatment is only for recovery, not for treating any disease.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Joint Base Lewis-McChord

    Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington, 98433, United States

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