17.6 Does infrared light therapy improve sensation in diabetics?        

            Lawrence A. Lavery; Douglas P. Murdoch; Jayme Williams; David C. Lavery; Scott & White Memorial Hospital      

Objective: To determine the efficacy of Monochromatic Infrared Photo Energy (Anodyne) in-home treatments over a 90-day period to improve peripheral sensation and self-reported quality of life in persons with diabetes mellitus.

Methods: This was a double blinded randomized, sham controlled clinical trail. We randomized 69 diabetics with sensory neuropathy demonstrated by vibration perception threshold between 20Ð45 V on the great toe and fifth metatarsal head on both feet into 2 treatment groups. Sixty patients (120 limbs) completed the study. Patients were randomly assigned to an active or sham treatment groups. Anodyne units were used at home every day for 40 minutes for 90 days. We evaluated nerve conduction velocities, vibration perception threshold, Semmes Weinstein Monofilaments (SWM) (4-, 10-, 26-, and 60-g monofilaments), the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI), 10-cm visual analog pain scale, and the Neuropathy Quality of Life Instrument.

Results: Sixty-nine subjects were enrolled, and 60 subjects completed the study. There were no differences in measures for quality of life, Neuropathy Disability Score, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument, VPT, SWM, or NCV's in active or sham treatment groups (P > 0.05).

Summary: Anodyne therapy was no more effective than sham therapy in the treatment of sensory neuropathy in persons with diabetes.