Light Therapy: A Safer Way of Easing Neuropathy Discomfort

It is my experience as a neuropathy specialist, in Orange County, Ca, that many of the treatments for neuropathy can have side effects that can be as bad as the condition itself. Neurontin and Lyrica for example are commonly prescribed medications for neuropathy. Side effects from this medication include drowsiness, sleep disturbances, coordination problems, nausea, weakness, dry mouth, blurred vision, diarrhea, constipation, weakness, fatigue, tremors, increased appetite, memory loss, depression and slurred speech. Light therapies have shown to be effective in easing neuropathy pain and there are little or no side effects associated with these treatments.

There are two types of light therapies used in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy, laser and infrared.

Infrared Therapy

Infrared increases local circulation to nerves and other tissue. Infrared light is also thought to stimulate release of the chemical, nitric oxide. Nitric oxide plays an important role in increasing circulation and also may assist in nerve conduction. There are two ways that a person can receive infrared light therapy. Some physical therapist offices offer infrared therapy. It is necessary to get a prescription from your treating doctor. Another way to obtain infrared light therapy is by purchasing a home unit. There are many units on the market. Make sure the infrared device is FDA cleared. It is also important to determine before purchase that the seller offers a trail period with a money back guarantee.

DPL light therapy is home unit is an infrared device that meets these requirements. that meets these requirements.

Laser therapy

Low level lasers supply energy to the body in the form of non-thermal (energy without heat) photons of light. Research as shown that there are many potential benefits in using laser for the treatment of neuropathy. These include: · Biostimulation-improved cell metabolism · Improved circulation and vasodilatation · Analgesic effect-pain relieving effect · Stimulation of wound healing Laser therapy can only be administered by a trained health professional-to clarify-there are four types of laser classifications-rated from class 1 to class 4. Class 1 and 2 emit very low energy beams. For example, class 1 lasers are used as pointers which are used as an aid in lecturing. Class 3 and 4 lasers emit a much stronger and more penetrating beam. These lasers often require the use of protective eyewear during treatment.