Physical Therapy Programs

This months Web focus article "Neuropathy"

Does foot pain and numbness have you off balance?

Do you or someone you know suffer from foot pain and tingling? Have you become more afraid of loosing you balance or falling? Have you been told you have something called Peripheral Neuropathy? If you have answered yes to any of the above questions you could benefit from Infrared Light Therapy. Recent research has proven that infrared light therapy has improved circulation and sensation associated with peripheral neuropathy. As sensation and circulation increases physical therapy can progress with strengthening and balance activities to improve walking and restore confidence.

How does this exciting therapy work? Infrared light delivered at a certain frequency has been found to release a powerful substance present in our bodies called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide has been found to assist in increasing circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the area, which in turn increases sensation, improves, healing and decreases pain. When our bodies face challenging physical situations such as peripheral neuropathy, the body produces less nitric oxide which compromises the bodies' circulation and can cause pain, loss of sensation and decreased ability to heal.

Infrared therapy has also been shown to be beneficial in relieving chronic pain, The healing of difficult wounds such as in diabetics, increasing flexibility as with tendonitis or capsulitis. Pain relief and improved mobility has also occurred with various types of arthritis. This therapy has been used by the US military for healing injuries in the elite soldiers in the Navy Seals, Army rangers and Special Forces. Many professional athletes have also benefited from this therapy.

While infrared light therapy is a powerful treatment it should be administered in a health care environment that includes physical therapy. Physical therapy provides comprehensive treatment that enhances the benefits of infrared therapy including massage techniques to stimulate blood flow and progressive flexibility, strengthening and stabilization exercises. As the strength improves the muscles need to be retrained for improved balance and increased endurance. Infrared light therapy can be found at Seabreeze Physical Therapy where the therapists have been incorporating this type of treatment into their individualized programs for over a decade. The therapists at Seabreeze strive to stay on the cutting edge of technology and skilled techniques to provide their patients with the latest high quality of care available. Seabreeze Physical Therapy offers specialized therapy in many areas including peripheral neuropathy, orthopedics, incontinence, pelvic pain, sports medicine and women's health. Please call or visit our convenient location and we will be happy to answer any questions specific to your needs.

Tricia Trinque M.H.E., P.T.
Physical Therapist
Seabreeze Physical Therapy