Using near infrared light to manage symptoms associated with restless legs syndrome

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the application of near infrared (NIR) light could positively modulate symptoms associated with restless legs syndrome (RLS). Twenty-one subjects with RLS were treated with NIR three times weekly for four weeks. Baseline measures of: (1) international restless legs syndrome rating scale (IRLSRS) score; (2) Semmes Weinstein monofilament (SWM) test; (3) visual analog pain scale (VAS); (4) ankle-brachial index (ABI); and (5) sonographic imaging of the popliteal and posterior tibial arteries were compared to post-treatment values. NIR (850 nm) was delivered transcutaneously at 8 J/cm(2) to four locations on each leg and the plantar surface of each foot. A pre-test-post-test one group design was employed. Baseline and post-treatment measures were compared using either a dependent t-test when data were normal or the Wilcoxon signed rank test in the absence of normality. A significant improvement in IRLSRS scores was observed. Sensation improved from less than protective in 16.6% of sites tested at the baseline to 13.4% post-intervention. There was a significant improvement in ABI scores. VAS and sonographic imaging measures other than ABI remained unchanged. The use of NIR to modulate symptoms associated with RLS was supported by the data.

Effect of Near-Infrared Light Therapy Based on Acupoints on the Severity of Restless Legs Syndrome in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Therefore, NIR light therapy causes changes in neurotransmitters. 1,21,31,32 NIR light therapy also affects pain, which is one of the factors linked to RLS. NIR light changes the permeability of the cell membrane, increases the production of endorphins, and increases the threshold of the action potential in nerve cells, which ultimately leads to pain relief.…”

“…The development of this disorder in hemodialysis patients is progressive, affecting various physical and psychological dimensions over time. 1,2 The symptoms of this syndrome are greatly intensified at rest, and are relieved by moving the extremities, especially the legs. 3 In hemodialysis patients, the symptoms mainly occur during dialysis when the patient is at rest and cause discomfort.…”

“…3 In hemodialysis patients, the symptoms mainly occur during dialysis when the patient is at rest and cause discomfort. 1 Evidence suggests that RLS in hemodialysis patients is associated with a risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, musculoskeletal pain, and increased mortality. [4][5][6][7][8] In the general population and in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the potential causes of RLS include anemia, pregnancy, iron deficiency, the dysfunction of dopamine within the central nervous system, a family history of RLS, and peripheral neuropathy.…”

“…9 Pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical therapeutic approaches are used to treat RLS. 1 Pharmaceutical treatments involve drugs, such as dopamine agonists, benzodiazepines, opioids, and gabapentin. [11][12][13][14] These pharmaceuticals temporarily relieve the symptoms of RLS, but are not considered to cure the disorder.…”

Medical devices for restless legs syndrome – clinical utility of the Relaxis pad

“…NIR has been found to be effective in the treatment of RLS/WED. 35 – 38 Most studies have used 30-minute treatments, three times a week for 4 weeks. In one study, 35 the treatment group had a significantly greater improvement in RLS/WED symptoms than the sham treatment group with lasting significant improvements after 4 weeks posttreatment when compared with baseline.…”