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171

Unexpected Outcomes from Monochromatic Infrared Energy (MIRE)

Sharon Burt, RN, BSN, CWOCN, Physicians Home Health Care, Wound Nurse Coordinator, 5085 List Drive, #170, Colorado Springs, CO 80919, Leslie McDonald, MHA, DPT, Physicians Home Health Care, Staff Physical Therapist, 5085 List Drive, #170, Colorado Springs, CO 80919, and Thomas Burke, PhD, Anodyne Therapy LLC, Director of Research and Clinical Affairs, 13570 Wright Circle, Tampa, FL 33626.

Monochromatic infrared energy (MIRE) is an accepted and effective treatment for peripheral neuropathy (PN) and pain. In the home care setting, the modality also shows evidence of positive and exceptional outcomes for co-morbidities as well. Case one: Patient is a 54-yo female with a neurological condition of unknown origin. The patient was negative for MS, MD, and Parkinson's following multiple evaluations for eleven years. PMH includes: PN, lumbago, lack of coordination, decreased balance, generalized weakness/malaise and fatigue, ataxia, dysphonia, tremor, pain (4 of 10), and fasciculations of the toes. Approach: MIRE 2X/week, PT for gait, balance, lumbar stabilization, transfer, core strengthening and neuro reeducation. Outcomes: after each treatment fasiculations stopped temporarily for increasing lengths of time, improved balance and ataxia, increased sensation bilateral LE, decreased neuro and pain meds, increased Tinetti scores and clarity of speech. Case two: Patient is a 70 yo male with a history of left sided CVA x 14 years, right sided hemi-paresis, no sensation to right arm, non-union fracture right humorous, flat affect, stage III pressure ulcer (PU) right heel, expressive aphasia (speaks in one or two word sentences), drools from right side of mouth, type II diabetes, diabetic PN, poor balance and gait. Approach: MIRE to right arm and leg 3X/week, Tender Wet for debridement, then silver dressing three times a week, P.T. for gait, balance and strength and conditioning. Outcomes: increased sensation to right arm and foot, improved gait, increase animation and speech (able to speak in multi-word sentences), no drooling, normal facial affect, healed both non-union fracture and PU. The increased speech capabilities, affect and mobility improved his QOL. He spoke to his wife in a meaningful way for the first time in 14 years. Conclusion: MIRE use may be accompanied by unexpected outcomes that change people's lives for the better.

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