Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Physical Therapy - Department of Physical Therapy for Cardiopulmonary and Geriatrics Disorders

Background: Obesity with excessive abdominal visceral and subcutaneous fat accumulation affects a person's quality of life, increased rate of morbidity and mortality. Purpose of the study: To objectively evaluate the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on abdominal visceral to subcutaneous (V/S) fat ratio. Methods: Sixty obese women were included with ages ranged from 40-50 years. They were divided into two groups (study and control) of equal number (each 30 women). Procedures: The mean of body mass index (BMI) in the study group was 32.75 ± 1.29 (Kg/m2) and in the control group it was 33.19 ± 1.48 (Kg/m2). Both groups received healthy low caloric diet, brisk walking one hour; three times per week. In addition, study group received LLLT, for 20 minutes, 3 times per week for 4weeks. Weight, BMI, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist hip ratio (WHR) and abdominal V/S ratio were measured before and after finishing the study. Results: There was a noticeable improvement in the mean of anthropometric measurements, abdominal visceral fat (AVF) and abdominal subcutaneous fat (ASF) after completion of the study within each group and in the mean of abdominal V/S fat ratio in the study group only. Conclusion: Low level laser therapy is effective, noninvasive & safe method for improving in patient's anthropometric measurements and abdominal fat thickness loss

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