What is an Anodyne?

 

Anodyne is a therapeutic device that delivers monochromatic near infrared photo energy through high tech, light emitting diodes (LEDS) in contact with the skin. The light is emitted by an array of 60 superluminous Gallium Aluminum Arsinide diodes located on flexible pads, 4 1/4” by 2 1/4” (22 square an.). Monochromatic means that the light emitted is within one specific wavelength, namely 890 nanometers. 890 nm was chosen because of the depth of penetration and high absorption because photo energy to be effective must be absorbed by the target tissue. Since the photo energy (light) is infrared, it cannot be seem.

 

The average energy emitted from the diodes is 9 milliwatts per square centimeter. The density of the photo energy emitted per pad dining a 30- minute treatment is 43.2 Joule / square centimeter.

 

Has the FDA reviewed Anodyne?

 

In 1994, The FDA reviewed the 510 (K) information submitted by Anodyne and issued its put-market approval letter. This letter states that the manufacture may claim that this product temporarily increases circulation and reduces local pain.  The Anodyne Therapy System is a Class II, non-invasive medical device cleared for marketing by the FDA in 1994 for increasing circulation and reducing pain.  The Anodyne device is covered under US Patent Number 5,358,503.

 

What happens when the Anodyne unit is used?

 

The diode array creates a comforting warm feeling under the pads. The photo energy (pad heat) dilates the blood under the vessels increasing circulation. The light (and heat) also reduces pain. Additionally, patients experience a decrease in local welling, decreased inflammation, decreased muscle spasm, decreased tension and muscle tightness, increased range of motion, increased lymphatic drainage and increased venous dilation and flow.  Diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy typically experience au increase in sensation to pressure and hot/cold.

 

How does Anodyne reduce pain and increase circulation?

 

The photo energy releases a free radical molecule called nitric oxide from the hemoglobin and possibly surrounding tissue. Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that is known to relax smooth muscle cells found in the arteries, veins, capillaries and lymph vessels. When these muscles relax, they dilate the blood vessel, thus allowing increased circulation. Nitric oxide has been shown to be essential for wound healing even if chronic or traumatic. Scientific literature shows that nitric oxide promotes collagen synthesis, collagen synthesis, collagen fibril alignment, and angiogenesis.  Nitric oxide is also a neurotransmitter.

 

Have increases in circulation associated with Anodyne ever been measured?

 

Yes. Tests have been conducted with a scientific instrument known as a scanning laser Doppler, which measures circulation at 1 to 2 millimeters (microcirculation). These tests demonstrate increases from 400% to 3200% after just a 30 minute Anodyne treatment. Please note that comparative increases in circulation using heat or ultra sound are substantially less than those observed with Anodyne

 

Are there any known adverse side effects with using Anodyne therapy?

 

Not if used with manufacturer’s instructions for use. The manufacturer, (or liability reasons, does not recommend its use where there is an active malignancy or for patients who ant pregnant since other modalities are likewise not recommended in these situations.

 

Note: diabetic patients should closely monitor their insulin levels during treatment as some patients require less insulin and may need to adjust their insulin dosage to prevent hypoglycemia.