Chronic Pain Is Often Caused By Diabetes
Neuropathy is a painful condition that affects over 20 million people in the United States. This chronic pain is often caused by diabetes, but infections, autoimmune disorders, alcoholism, and vitamin deficiencies can also cause it. Thankfully, there are many drug-free home devices that can help ease symptoms like burning, stabbing, or tingling sensations. One of these home devices is infrared therapy. This technology is gaining popularity due to its ability to stimulate healing, promote nerve recovery, restore sensation, and reduce pain.
Comparing Infrared Laser Therapy is a non-invasive, medication-free treatment that uses light wavelengths to stimulate the body’s cellular energy. Unlike ultraviolet light, which damages cells and tissues, infrared wavelengths are beneficial to human health and have been shown to be effective against neuropathy pain. This therapy focuses on wavelengths between 635 and 940 nanometers, which are the most effective for humans. These wavelengths are able to penetrate deep into the muscles and tissue to increase energy levels, which can then promote healing.
Red and near-infrared (NIR) light have been proven in numerous clinical trials to be effective against peripheral neuropathy. NIR has a deeper penetration and is effective in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and increasing blood flow to the area. This increased circulation is necessary for delivering oxygen to the cells and boosting the body’s natural antioxidant activities.
As the light penetrates the skin, it stimulates the body’s cellular activity and enables the release of nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that helps widen blood vessels, which improves circulation to the treated area. This improved blood flow allows nutrient-rich and oxygen-rich blood to be delivered to the nerves, which relieves neuropathic pain and accelerates healing.
Light also triggers the production of ATP, which is the energy source that powers all cell functions. This is a crucial process for maintaining optimal function and is particularly depleted in areas affected by neuropathy. When ATP is increased, it can help the nerves reconnect to the brain and resume their normal functioning. In addition, ATP can eliminate free radicals, which are the culprits of oxidative stress that contributes to neuropathic pain and inflammation.