How do I perform anodyne therapy?

Anodyne therapy is intended for individuals who participate in a regular physical therapy or occupational therapy program because it augments the more conventional treatment. Usually, the person who performs Anodyne therapy does not also provide physical therapy. However, certification is not necessary to perform the therapy.

Before the first Anodyne treatment, the healthcare provider interviews the patient. The patient tells the provider about the onset and duration of symptoms and personal goals for recovery. The provider and patient also discuss the intensity of pain, as well as the patient's physical or occupational therapy. The provider then creates a treatment plan, which details the expectations of the frequency and duration of Anodyne therapy that may help the patient; generally, patients who choose this modality also participate in regular physical or occupational therapy.

Generally, the practitioner recommends that a patient receives three 30 minute sessions of Anodyne therapy per week for at least four weeks.

Most Anodyne therapy sessions last 30 to 45 minutes. In the office of a healthcare provider, the treatment is delivered by eight rectangular pads that are part of the Professional System.

During treatment in an office, the patient generally sits still while the practitioner applies some or all of the eight available pads. Some individuals experience a feeling of warmth during the treatment. However, some patients may feel a tingling sensation or a small amount of discomfort. These symptoms generally disappear after a few minutes of the treatment. However, the patient should always communicate their comfort level with the practitioner so that the treatment may be adjusted if necessary.

Patients may receive Anodyne therapy a maximum of three times daily. In these instances, the intensity of infrared light delivered to the patient's skin and the length of each session may decrease.