• Diabetes
• Trauma or repetitive use injury
• Alcoholism

Our therapists will evaluate potential candidates and if appropriate, recommend a treatment program that can include:

• Infrared light therapy to reduce pain and increase circulation
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Dynamic and static balance exercises
• Massage and other treatments to manage pain
• Activities of daily living
• Techniques to improve feeling

Outcomes of Treatment

The goal of treatment is to manage the underlying cause and to repair damage, give the patient maximum independence and self-care ability as well as provide symptom relief. In a recent study (Kochman 2004) where patients used this treatment plan, results showed:

• Improved feeling in affected areas – all patients reported improved feeling and 60% achieved normal feeling.
• Improved walking and balance – 80% reported reduction in fear of falling and 78% reported reduction in actual falling
• Improved self-care activities – 72% reported increase in daily activities.
• Reduced pain – 87% of chronic/post-surgery patients reported reduction in pain.

The increased circulation in affected areas also improved wound healing and the potential to prevent amputation.

Kochman, Alan B. 2004. Restoration of sensation, improved balance and gait reduction in falls in elderly patients with use of monochromatic infrared photo energy and physical therapy. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy 27, no. 1: 16-19.

Copyright 2003 by Santé Rehabilitation Group/ www.santerehab.com/ All rights reserved.