Two Locations:
1807 Mercer Road, Ellwood City
2610 Ellwood Road, New Castle
Hours:
Ellwood City: Mon-Thurs 7-7, Fri 7-3
New Castle: Mon-Thurs 7-7, Fri 7-3

Anodyne Therapy

Anodyne Therapy is used to treat peripheral neuropathy, a condition that results from damage to peripheral nerves due to poor circulation. Peripheral neuropathy most often results from diabetes, however, circulatory problems, medication, chemotherapy, prescribed drugs, AIDS and alcohol may also contribute to peripheral neuropathy. The peripheral nerves are the nerves that run from the spinal cord to the arms and legs and are primarily responsible for interpreting different sensations. Damage to these nerves often results in feelings of burning, extreme coldness, aching, throbbing, cramping, pin and needles and shooting pains in the hands and feet.

Other clinical treatments for peripheral neuropathy include various pain killers, and/or supplements. Pain medication may temporarily help, but eventually the dosage may be increased to control the rise in pain, and subsequent medical problems could result from long term medication use.

Anodyne Therapy is a non-invasive procedure that does not require medication to treat peripheral neuropathy. Instead, Anodyne Therapy uses infrared light to increase circulation in the area to heal the nerves and surrounding tissue while reducing pain and discomfort that is associated with peripheral neuropathy. It does so by emitting infrared light waves approximately 5 cm into the skin to increase photo-activity and increase heat in the area. The infrared light creates nitric oxide within the body, which relaxes the blood vessels in the area thereby allowing them to dilate. Dilation of blood vessels increases circulation and increases the number of blood cells to that area. It is the blood cells that are responsible for repairing the body, thus an increase within the area helps to repair the nerve damage.

Typically patients are treated three times per week for 30-45 minute sessions. Treatment times depend on how far the neuropathy has progressed. Anodyne therapy with traditional physical therapy helps to improve circulation and decrease/eliminate the effects of peripheral neuropathy.

For more information contact AIR Physical Therapy or visit www.anodynetherapy.com.