Effectiveness of MIRE and PT for Peripheral Neuropathy: Changes in Sensation, Pain, and Balance - A Preliminary, Multi-Center Study

Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics• Vol 24 • No 2 • 2006

Wendy Volkert¹, Ahmed Hassan², Mohamed A. Hassan^3,4,5, Vicki L. Smock⁶, Justin P. Connor⁷, Becky McFee⁸, Shayne K. Ferguson⁹ and Thomas J. Burke¹⁰

1 Genesis Medical Center -Davenport, IA

2 Premier Physical Therapy - Orland Park, IL

3 Premier Physical Therapy Clinics - Evergreen Park, IL

4 Premier Physical Therapy Clinics - Orand Park, IL

5 Premier Physical Therapy Clinics - Hinsdale, IL

6 Westside Retirement Village - Indianapolis, IN

7 Sonoma Valley Hospital - Sonoma, CA

8 Lumina of Campbellsville - Campbellsville, KY

9 Lumina of Elizabethtown - Elizabethtown, KY

10 Anodyne Therapy LLC - Tampa, FL

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of monochromatic infraredphoto energy (MIRE™) combined with physical therapy in reducingpain, improving sensation, and increasing balance in patients with peripheral neuropathy.

Methods: Pain [VAS scale], diminished foot sensation [Semmes Weinstein Monofilament 5.07], and balance deficits [Tinetti Assessment
Tool] of 272 patients, average age 69 years, were documented before and after receiving treatments at eight physical therapy clinics.

Results: Neuropathic pain, diminished foot sensation, and balance impairments at baseline were present in 93% of patients. After an average of 18 treatments, neuropathic pain decreased by 38%, lower extremity sensory impairment improved by 77%, and balance deficits decreased by 73% [P < 0.006 for all results].

Conclusions: Compared with the literature, preliminary findings suggest that MIRE™ plus manual physical therapy improves pain, balance, and sensation symptoms in patients with peripheral neuropathy, at least temporarily.