Existing Therapy Offers Groundbreaking CTE Protection for Football Players
A recent study suggests that red light therapy, a treatment already in use for skin health and pain relief, may also protect football players from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Dr. Shae Datta, co-director of the NYU Langone Concussion Center, has called this finding “incredibly groundbreaking.” CTE, a degenerative brain disease, often affects athletes due to repetitive head injuries. Its symptoms can range from confusion and memory loss to severe physical difficulties.
Understanding Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
CTE is linked to repeated blows to the head and is most prevalent among athletes in contact sports, as well as military personnel. There is currently no cure for this disease, and the only preventative measures involve minimizing head impacts through helmets and other protective gear. With over 100 former NFL players diagnosed with CTE, there is an urgent need for effective strategies to mitigate its risks.
Red Light Therapy and Its Potential
The latest study from the University of Utah Health examined the effects of red light therapy on brain inflammation. This form of therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is believed to enhance cellular energy production and increase blood flow, thereby aiding tissue repair. Researchers aimed to determine whether it could reduce brain inflammation caused by repetitive head trauma, which is a significant factor in CTE development.
Study Methodology and Findings
In the study, 26 collegiate football players participated in a 16-week trial. They received either red light therapy via a specialized device or a placebo treatment. The athletes underwent sessions three times a week for 20 minutes.
- The placebo group showed increased brain inflammation by the end of the season.
- Participants receiving red light therapy experienced stable levels of inflammation throughout the study.
Dr. Hannah Lindsey, a research associate involved in the study, expressed surprise at the results, emphasizing their significance. Experts like Datta and Dr. Kristen Dams-O’Connor from Mount Sinai share enthusiasm about the potential of red light therapy to make athletic activities safer.
Future Directions and Considerations
While the preliminary findings are promising, researchers stress the need for further investigation. Current red light devices available to consumers may not be suitable, as specific wavelengths are required to penetrate tissues effectively.
With ongoing studies planned, including a Department of Defense funded trial involving 300 participants experiencing symptoms from concussions or traumatic brain injuries, there may be a future where red light therapy is widely adopted in professional and collegiate sports.
Dr. Carrie Esopenko also expressed hopes that these findings could enhance the safety of sports for all participants, promoting both enjoyment and long-term well-being.
