Ask An Expert: Anodyne Therapy

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Ask An Expert: Anodyne Therapy

Question:

I have type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, as well as edema in the lower leg. A neurologist has prescribed "anodyne therapy" three times a week for three months. What is anodyne therapy? Is it a valid treatment for my needs? I have never heard of it.

Answer:

Your doctor has prescribed a treatment that involves exposure of your legs to light that is close to the wavelength of infrared light. This technique has only been evaluated in very small, very short-term studies. Based on the results of these quite small studies, some doctors have felt encouraged that the technique might help people with modest symptoms of neuropathy to recover some of their nerve sensing abilities.

This technique requires an investment of hours each day, and so far, doctors don't have any information about whether this possible benefit is a lasting one. Long-term side effects have not been studied.

Most doctors (myself included) are not currently recommending this treatment, because there is too much uncertainty about whether the investment of your time and the cost of treatment will lead to worthwhile results. If you choose to pursue the treatment, you may wish to ask your doctor whether you can be a part of a study. This way you can help us know more about a treatment that is still quite new.

Mary Pickett, M.D., is a lecturer for Harvard Medical School and an assistant professor of medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, OR. At OHSU, she practices general internal medicine and teaches medical residents and students.

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Last updated:	January 24, 2007