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Guest column

Infrared therapy relieves pain, numbness, tingling

By CHERYL MCFARLAND
Published September 26, 2005

There is a relatively new physical therapy technique available that uses light to bring energy under the skin to speed healing, decrease pain and encourage nerve regeneration. This therapy is called infrared and cold laser or anodyne therapy.

Energy is defined by waves of atomic particles. The distance between the waves are measured and referred to as the wavelength. Infrared is just beyond the visible part of the light spectrum. Laser is a very precise delivery of only a very narrow band of light. This band is monochromatic (one color). It does not deliver burning heat, only the therapeutic energy.

A study referenced in the journal Diabetes Care in January 2004 demonstrated restorative properties with use of the cold infrared laser. Pain, numbness and tingling have been decreased or relieved following the use of this infrared photo energy; and restoration of sensation, reduced pain and improved balance was demonstrated.

Reduced sensory impairment in patients with peripheral neuropathies was detailed in the journa l Endocrine Practice in 2004. Symptomatic reversal of peripheral neuropathy was demonstrated in patients with diabetes in another article in the Journal of American Podiatry Medical Association in 2002.

Restoration of sensation, improved balance and gait and reduction in falls in elderly patients with use of monochromatic infrared photo energy and physical therapy was detailed in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy in 2004. Improved sensitivity in patients with peripheral neuropathy after treatment with monochromatic infrared therapy was demonstrated by S. DeLelils, D.E. Carnegie and T.J. Burke in the Journal of American Podiatry Medical Association . There was a significant difference between the test group and the control group in several studies.

In this chiropractic practice, infrared cold laser therapy has helped with bursitis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis. This therapy requires a short treatment time, is pain free and is low-cost. For these conditions, consult a chiropractor to see if infrared is right for you.

--Editor's note: This public service information was provided by Dr. Cheryl McFarland of Better Health Chiropractic, 6166 W Gulf to Lake Highway, Crystal River. Call 795-8911.

[Last modified September 26, 2005, 01:18:19]