BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. One of the microvascular complications of DM is diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), which is associated with increased mortality from serious infections and decreased functional capacity of the patient due to amputation. Uncontrolled diabetes is a significant risk factor for poor wound healing. There is a need for alternative treatments that can promote wound healing in these patients. Several studies have shown the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on wound healing in patients with DFU. LLLT is a potential therapeutic approach in patients with DFU.

CASE REPORT: A 55-year-old male patient presented with a history of DM, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic foot. The patient had uncontrolled blood sugar levels, with an HbA1C of 9.3%. The patient received therapy in the form of wound care with normal saline, topical antibiotics, and LLLT, with a dose of 10 J/cm² with a frequency of therapy 3 times per week. After 12 weeks of therapy, there was improvement, characterized by wound tissue growth and no significant adverse effects during therapy.

CONCLUSIONS: LLLT can provide benefits in patients with DFU and uncontrolled diabetes. The wound showed improvement after 12 weeks of therapy, and there were no significant adverse effects during therapy. LLLT is a minimally invasive, easy-to-use, and inexpensive therapeutic option to induce wound healing in patients with DFU and uncontrolled diabetes.

Keywords: Low-Level Light Therapy, Diabetic Foot, Diabetes Complications, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2