What is Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN)?

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes and has been considered to be progressive and irreversible.  Between 26% and 50% of people with diabetes are diagnosed with DPN and up to 100% develop some degree of neuropathy 5 years after diagnosis of diabetes. Millions of people also have a similar neuropathy of non diabetic origin with similar effects on the nervous system.

What are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy  are prickling, tingling or burning pain and numbness in the feet, legs and/or hands.  These can be worse at night interrupting sleep and can make exercising, walking and even driving a car extremely difficult.  Many people have problems with balance and falls are common because of the lack of adequate sensation in their feet and legs.

What is Anodyne Therapy?

The Anodyne Therapy System is a safe, FDA-cleared, drug-free, non-invasive device that uses near-infrared light emitting diodes to safely increase local circulation and reduce pain.  Use in thousands of patients since 1994 has demonstrated that the Anodyne Therapy System increases local circulation in patients with DPN, who often have severe vascular impairment.  The results of this improved circulation have been published in several medical journals and include improved sensation and nerve function, pain reduction and healing of chronic diabetic ulcers.  New data shows that treatment with this therapy combined with a balance and strengthening program can also improve balance and gait and reduce the risk of falls by 96% in the elderly patient with neuropathy.

Who is Eligible for the Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Program?

Any person who has numbness or pain in their feet or legs combined with difficulty with gait or balance abnormalities may qualify for this program.  People with diabetes and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) are most likely to benefit, although some other types of neuropathy may respond.  A doctor must order this program in order for Medicare or your insurance to cover it.

What is the Treatment Program?

The program typically consists of 3 therapy sessions per week and lasts 4 weeks – although some patients may take longer.  The therapy consists of a breakthrough monochromatic infrared photo energy called Anodyne Therapy, along with balance, gait and strengthening physical therapy exercises.  This 12-session protocol has been clinically proven over three years on several thousand patients to provide the best outcomes.  An ongoing home treatment program may be recommended after the twelve sessions are complete.

Will Insurance Cover It?

Medicare and most insurance companies cover physical therapy programs when prescribed by your doctor.  If you have a question about coverage, ask your insurance carrier if your plan covers physical therapy.

Is it Safe for Everyone?

Anodyne Therapy may be used in any patient unless they are pregnant or have an active cancer.  It can even be used safely over pins, implants, screws, pacemakers and defibrillators.

Are There Any Serious Side Effects or Drug Interactions?

There are no known drug interactions.  However, when circulation improves and the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy are reduced, sometimes less diabetes medication is required.  It is important to check blood sugars regularly during this program and reduce your medication as needed.  The only known side effect is a slight potential for a burn.  It is important to let the therapist know if you are particularly sensitive to heat or light.

If you have been experiencing neuropathy and or  ulcerated sores, please discuss this program with your physician. If someone you know experiences any of these conditions please pass this information on to them.