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$299–$399
The dpl Neuropathy Light Therapy System is a purpose-built LED photo-therapy device designed specifically for peripheral neuropathy of the feet, using a combination of 880 nm near-infrared and 660 nm red LEDs embedded in a flexible pad that conforms to the plantar surface and top of the foot. It is one of the most established dedicated neuropathy infrared therapy devices in the consumer market and is closely related to the Anodyne Therapy system technology that was evaluated in several clinical trials for diabetic neuropathy. The 880 nm wavelength used in the dpl device matches the wavelength used in the most-cited clinical research on infrared therapy for peripheral neuropathy, giving it a more direct evidence connection than many competing LED devices.
How It Works
The dpl system delivers photobiomodulation through a combination of near-infrared (880 nm) and visible red (660 nm) LEDs embedded in a flexible silicone-encased pad. The near-infrared wavelength penetrates several centimeters into tissue, stimulating mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase and triggering nitric oxide release, which relaxes smooth muscle in the walls of small blood vessels and increases blood flow to peripheral nerve tissue. The 660 nm red LEDs address the more superficial intraepidermal nerve fibers — the small fiber terminals that are often the first to be damaged in diabetic and idiopathic neuropathy.
The combination of wavelengths means the device addresses both the small fiber endings (critical for pain and temperature sensation) and the deeper peripheral nerve structures. The flexible pad design ensures consistent light delivery to the curved plantar surface — a significant practical advantage over flat panel devices that create variable light-to-skin distances. Each 20-minute automated session delivers a consistent photon dose calibrated by the manufacturer.
Clinical-Grade Features at Home
The dpl Neuropathy System is notable for using the same 880 nm near-infrared wavelength validated in clinical studies, including those using the Anodyne Therapy System. The Anodyne device demonstrated significant improvements in sensory threshold and balance in diabetic neuropathy patients in RCTs published in Diabetes Care, making this the most directly evidence-connected wavelength for peripheral neuropathy applications.
The flexible pad design is a meaningful engineering advantage. Unlike rigid panel devices, the dpl pad can be positioned to maintain close-to-skin or skin contact over the entire plantar surface, arch, and toe areas — critical because photon density drops rapidly with distance from the LED source. The device is sealed against moisture (important for a foot device), and the timer-controlled sessions prevent overuse. For neuropathy patients who have difficulty with complex device setup, the simple plug-and-go design reduces barriers to consistent daily use.
Treatment Protocol
The standard protocol for the dpl Neuropathy System is one 20-minute session per foot, once or twice daily. The device automatically shuts off at 20 minutes — simply reposition and restart for the second foot. Most clinical protocols for infrared neuropathy therapy use daily or near-daily sessions over a 4 to 12 week initial course before assessing response.
For best results: use on clean, dry skin free of lotion or sunscreen (which can absorb or scatter light). Position the pad so the LED array is in close contact with the plantar surface and wrap it up over the foot if possible to treat the dorsum as well. Some patients also position the pad against the lower leg above the ankle for additional tibial and peroneal nerve coverage. Track your symptoms with a simple daily pain rating scale so you have objective data on response at your follow-up physician visit.
If you have significantly reduced sensation in your feet, periodically check the skin under the device during and after each session for any signs of redness or irritation. The device should not generate uncomfortable heat — if it does, discontinue use and check for malfunction.
Who It Is For
The dpl Neuropathy System is most appropriate for patients with mild to moderate peripheral neuropathy affecting the feet — including diabetic neuropathy, idiopathic neuropathy, and small fiber neuropathy — who want a well-engineered, evidence-connected home device for ongoing light therapy. It is also reasonable for post-chemotherapy neuropathy patients looking for a home maintenance therapy between or following clinical treatment.
Patients with severe neuropathic pain who have not responded to multiple medical treatments should pursue clinical photobiomodulation at a specialty clinic (where higher-powered devices can deliver more robust doses) before investing in a home device. The dpl system is best positioned as a convenient, consistent daily treatment adjunct to — not a replacement for — medical evaluation and management of underlying neuropathy. As with all devices used on neuropathic feet, discuss with your treating physician or podiatrist before use if you have active foot wounds, vascular disease, or Charcot foot.
Pros
- Uses 880 nm near-infrared wavelength — the most clinically validated wavelength for peripheral neuropathy
- Flexible pad design maintains skin-close contact across the curved plantar surface
- Combination red and near-infrared LEDs addresses both superficial and deep nerve fiber populations
- Simple timer-controlled design makes consistent daily use accessible
- Purpose-built for neuropathy rather than a repurposed general wellness device
Cons
- Price point ($299–$399) is higher than generic LED panels — though justified by neuropathy-specific design
- Pad size may not fully accommodate very large feet
- Not a substitute for comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the dpl Neuropathy System the same as the Anodyne Therapy System?
They use the same primary wavelength (880 nm near-infrared) and similar LED pad form factor. The Anodyne System was used in the most-cited clinical trials for infrared therapy in diabetic neuropathy and is no longer commercially marketed. The dpl system is the most direct consumer equivalent available. The clinical evidence from Anodyne trials provides the strongest rationale for 880 nm near-infrared therapy, though it was generated using the original Anodyne devices.
How long will it take to see results with the dpl system?
Clinical trials using similar devices measured outcomes at 12 sessions (about 2–3 weeks of daily use) and at 6 to 12 weeks. Some patients report initial changes in sensation — often increased tingling or warmth indicating nerve activation — within the first few weeks. Measurable improvements in monofilament sensation, balance, or pain scores typically require a full 4 to 8 week trial. Consistent daily use is essential — sporadic sessions are unlikely to produce meaningful results.
Can I use the dpl device if I have metal implants in my feet?
LED light therapy devices do not interact with metal implants in the way that MRI or PEMF devices might. The photons penetrate tissue but do not generate significant electromagnetic fields that would heat metal implants. The dpl system is generally considered safe for use around most orthopedic hardware. If you have any concern, consult with the orthopedic surgeon who placed the implants.