Scientists at the University of Birmingham have discovered that transcranial infrared light therapy may facilitate tissue repair following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). In animal studies, brief daily sessions of infrared light, especially at the 810nm wavelength, reduced inflammation and cell death, leading to significant improvements in cognitive and balance functions four weeks after injury. This therapy specifically decreased the activation of astrocytes and microglial cells, which are key players in post-injury inflammation, and reduced markers of cell death.
This research opens doors for a potential new treatment for mTBI, a condition with limited therapeutic options. The team now plans to develop a medical device to deliver this therapy to patients with brain and spinal cord injuries, and they are seeking commercial partners for co-development.
In the study, the Birmingham team, comprising researchers Professor Zubair Ahmed, Professor Will Palin, Dr Mohammed Hadis and surgeons Mr Andrew Stevens and Mr David Davies, examined the effect of two wavelengths of near infrared light (660nm and 810nm) on recovery following injury. The study in animal models used daily two-minute bursts of infrared light, delivered by a laser, for three days post-injury.
The findings showed significant reductions in the activation of astrocytes and microglial cells, which are heavily implicated in the inflammatory processes in the brain that follow head trauma, and significant reductions in biochemical markers of apoptosis (cell death). At four weeks, there were significant improvements in performance in functional tests involving balance and cognitive function.
The red light therapy also accelerated recovery compared to controls, with superior outcomes for light with a wavelength of 810nm. The study builds on research published earlier this year which showed near infrared light delivered directly to the site of spinal cord injury both improves survival of nerve cells and stimulates new nerve cell growth.
Facts:
Transcranial infrared light therapy reduces inflammation and cell death post-mTBI.
The treatment improved cognitive and balance functions in animal models.
810nm infrared light showed superior recovery outcomes compared to other wavelengths.
Our lawyers will examine every aspect of your case and work with your surgeon, doctors, therapists, and accident benefits insurers to learn what resources you need the most in order to work towards a successful verdict at trial or a fair settlement.
We enjoy a strong reputation as trial lawyers for the injured. When the insurance company offers a less than fair settlement, our lawyers are not afraid to build the case further and advance to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers go to trial and which ones won’t. Retaining a lawyer with a reputation of successfully trying cases puts you in the best chance at receiving fair compensation.
Having a trial experienced personal injury Lawyer can make a significant difference in your case involving a traumatic brain injury (TBI) for several reasons:
Traumatic brain injury cases are our expertise not just an area of practice: Brain injury cases are complex and difficult to prove, requiring not only knowledge of the law but also an understanding of brain injuries, their causes, and the long-term consequences. Our experienced lawyers understand these different aspects of a TBI case because we’ve fought—and won—these cases before. Read more on our Trial Report Card. Read more on Wasylyk vs County of Simcoe.
Legal representation in court - from start to verdict: If your case goes to trial, having a trial Lawyer ensures that you have the right representation in court. We believe the true measure of a Lawyer is trial experience and that is the representation you need on your team. Trial Injury Lawyers will build your case to succeed and only pursue fair compensation for you and your family.
A lawyer who understands the medical and financial implications: A Traumatic brain Injury often involves complex medical issues and significant long-term care needs. A personal injury Lawyer with the experience can work with medical experts to accurately assess the extent of your injury, including its impact on your future well-being and ability to work. This helps in calculating appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
**Please note that the contents of this blog should not be relied upon as legal advice or medical advice, but only for information and reference purposes. You should always follow the advice of your doctors and treatment providers with respect to your diagnoses and what health and medical steps you should take to best recover. If you wish to obtain legal advice, please contact our office and arrange for a free consultation with one of our lawyers.**
