Jetty said:
I've not tried the vibrating plate… interesting. I've been on Gabapentin, pre-gabapentin, cymbalta and 1 other I can't think of. In reply to Bigtruckguy3500… I'm not diabetic, symptoms started approx. 2 weeks after my 2nd Covid vaccine.
Jetty said:
I've not tried the vibrating plate… interesting. I've been on Gabapentin, pre-gabapentin, cymbalta and 1 other I can't think of. In reply to Bigtruckguy3500… I'm not diabetic, symptoms started approx. 2 weeks after my 2nd Covid vaccine.
Jetty said:
Sorry just saw this… making it… some days are ehhh and some days are Horrible! I'm just SO thankful I can sleep! Just home from a mini vacation spent 5 hours in the car… that's Never good to have my feet down for that length of time. I'm spending today in my recliner with my feet up. Wish we could all find a cure! Or at least some help!
BartInLA said:
I have diabetic neuropathy in my feet. I was listening to a two hour talk that included this type of therapy initially stating how it helped reduce aging in the face but then the podcast went further. No mention in the podcast about DN. I am going to order it.
Red light therapy for diabetic neuropathy in the feet
What it is
Red light therapy (RLT), also called low-level laser/light therapy (LLLT), uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes. It is thought to improve cellular energy (ATP), reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair.
Evidence and effectiveness
Diabetic neuropathy (DN)** is a complex condition caused by diabetes that affects nerves, often in the feet.
Current evidence is mixed and evolving.** Some small studies and pilot trials have suggested:
Potential improvements in pain, sensation, and nerve function
Possible enhanced wound healing in neuropathic ulcers
Limitations:** Many studies have small sample sizes, short follow-up, varying light wavelengths, dosages, and treatment durations. There is not yet a robust consensus that RLT reliably treats DN symptoms or prevents progression.
Potential benefits
Reduced pain or numbness in some individuals
Improved blood flow and microcirculation in treated areas
Faster healing of foot ulcers if present
Possible modest improvements in nerve function in some cases
Potential risks and considerations
Generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals and using approved devices
Possible transient redness, warmth, or irritation at the treatment site
Not a substitute for standard diabetes care
Must be used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan (glycemic control, foot care, regular check-ups)
Practical guidance
Consult your healthcare provider** before starting RLT, especially with diabetic neuropathy. They can evaluate your specific case, review medications, and coordinate care.
If approved, seek treatment from reputable clinics or devices with evidence-based protocols. Ask:
Wavelengths used (commonly around 6301100 nm)
Treatment duration and frequency
Expected vs. observed outcomes
Any contraindications (e.g., active infection, open wounds, certain medications)
Continue standard DN management:
Strict blood glucose control
Regular foot exams and foot care
Denture and footwear adjustments to prevent ulcers
Management of comorbidities (hypertension, cholesterol)
What to discuss with your clinician
Do you have a specific DN symptom profile (pain, numbness, burning, balance issues)?
Are there any foot ulcers or wounds present?
What evidence-based alternatives or adjuncts would be best in your case (physical therapy, medications like duloxetine or gabapentinoids, topical agents, other modalities)?
What would be a realistic timeline to assess effectiveness?
Bottom line
Red light therapy may offer some benefits for people with diabetic neuropathy, particularly for pain relief or wound healing in some individuals, but evidence is not strong enough to universally recommend it as a primary treatment. It should be considered as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, comprehensive diabetes and neuropathy management. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting RLT.
Podcast
BartInLA said:
I have diabetic neuropathy in my feet. I was listening to a two hour talk that included this type of therapy initially stating how it helped reduce aging in the face but then the podcast went further. No mention in the podcast about DN. I am going to order it.
Red light therapy for diabetic neuropathy in the feet
What it is
Red light therapy (RLT), also called low-level laser/light therapy (LLLT), uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes. It is thought to improve cellular energy (ATP), reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair.
Evidence and effectiveness
Diabetic neuropathy (DN)** is a complex condition caused by diabetes that affects nerves, often in the feet.
Current evidence is mixed and evolving.** Some small studies and pilot trials have suggested:
Potential improvements in pain, sensation, and nerve function
Possible enhanced wound healing in neuropathic ulcers
Limitations:** Many studies have small sample sizes, short follow-up, varying light wavelengths, dosages, and treatment durations. There is not yet a robust consensus that RLT reliably treats DN symptoms or prevents progression.
Potential benefits
Reduced pain or numbness in some individuals
Improved blood flow and microcirculation in treated areas
Faster healing of foot ulcers if present
Possible modest improvements in nerve function in some cases
Potential risks and considerations
Generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals and using approved devices
Possible transient redness, warmth, or irritation at the treatment site
Not a substitute for standard diabetes care
Must be used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan (glycemic control, foot care, regular check-ups)
Practical guidance
Consult your healthcare provider** before starting RLT, especially with diabetic neuropathy. They can evaluate your specific case, review medications, and coordinate care.
If approved, seek treatment from reputable clinics or devices with evidence-based protocols. Ask:
Wavelengths used (commonly around 6301100 nm)
Treatment duration and frequency
Expected vs. observed outcomes
Any contraindications (e.g., active infection, open wounds, certain medications)
Continue standard DN management:
Strict blood glucose control
Regular foot exams and foot care
Denture and footwear adjustments to prevent ulcers
Management of comorbidities (hypertension, cholesterol)
What to discuss with your clinician
Do you have a specific DN symptom profile (pain, numbness, burning, balance issues)?
Are there any foot ulcers or wounds present?
What evidence-based alternatives or adjuncts would be best in your case (physical therapy, medications like duloxetine or gabapentinoids, topical agents, other modalities)?
What would be a realistic timeline to assess effectiveness?
Bottom line
Red light therapy may offer some benefits for people with diabetic neuropathy, particularly for pain relief or wound healing in some individuals, but evidence is not strong enough to universally recommend it as a primary treatment. It should be considered as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, comprehensive diabetes and neuropathy management. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting RLT.
Podcast
Jetty said:
Please let us know if it helps!!!!!
