Unfortunately, neither over-the-counter nor prescription pain medications are very effective for treating nerve pain and can have serious side effects when used over a long period of time. Also, because diabetic neuropathy is most likely to occur in older patients (those who have had diabetes for longer than 25 years), doctors are hesitant to prescribe stronger pain medications that can negatively impact vital organs and can interact poorly with other medications.

As scientists learn more about the underlying causes of neuropathy, new treatments are becoming available to help slow, prevent or even reverse nerve damage. Genesis Spine Associates has found that one of these treatments - infrared light therapy - offers a viable solution. The process is simple: flexible pads containing multiple infrared lights are placed over the affected areas. The energy from the lights is absorbed deep in the tissues promoting normal blood chemistry, increasing blood flow, bringing oxygen and essential nutrients to the area, reducing inflammation and thus relieving pain. After just 30 minutes of treatment, blood flow is increased by 400 percent and lasts for several hours after the pads are removed. And, best of all, the treatment is painless and can be repeated as needed.

SOURCE Genesis Spine Associates