The laser plus exercises group ( Laser + EX : 50 patients ) received low-level laser therapy ( LLLT ) with a diode laser , 980nm , with a specific handpiece [ 32cm ( 2 ) irradiation spot size , power 20W in continuous wave ( CW ) , fluence 37.5 J/cm ( 2 ) , total energy per point 1200J ] thrice weekly , and followed a daily exercise schedule for 3 weeks ( 5 days/week ) .