Infrared therapy has significantly improved healing times in a variety of wounds by increasing perfusion to wounded areas. The release of nitrous oxide with the use of infrared light results in vasodilation and increased perfusion to wounds. Chronic wounds including arterial, venous, diabetic and pressure ulcers have shown significant improvement with the use of this therapy. Infrared has also been used in many acute cases of patients with severe blistering of the lower extremities with positive result. In addition, successful pain management has been realized for patients suffering from neuropathic and ischemic pain associated with these wounds.

Over a two year period of time 96 case studies were done evaluating the effects of infrared therapy. All patients received global wound care according to established standards of care including pressure relief nutrition labs and appropriate topical therapies. Therapy with infrared was applied to patients in the rehabilitation setting five times a week for approximately ten minutes. The light was applied to wounds and arteries to improve perfusion. In the home care setting, treatment was decreased to three times a week using another manufacturer and equipment. In both settings, infrared decreased wound dimensions, decreased pain and improved perfusion. The results showed positive outcomes in 90% of the patients receiving treatment with infrared.

Recently infrared therapy has been initiated at our affiliated home care agency. This has provided clients with continuity in wound care from the rehabilitation center to home. This has had continuing positive outcomes in the patients who received ongoing care.

The use of infrared therapy has been proven significant in a large number of patients over a two year study in achieving positive outcomes with patients suffering from painful and debilitating wounds.