When you drive on the road in Connecticut, a motor vehicle accident is always a possibility. While most collisions involve minor vehicle damage and injuries, some accidents cause severe trauma. In a high-speed collision, head and neck injuries are a concern. Thankfully, a new, non-invasive treatment may make a difference for drivers who suffer from a traumatic brain injury.
The dangers of TBIs
Any injury to the central nervous system can result in severe consequences. Your brain is responsible for every thought and action you take in a day. The impact of a TBI depends on the location and severity of the injury. In minor injuries, the brain can heal, and the victim will return to normal in a few weeks. Major injuries can lead to permanent brain damage resulting in issues such as:
- Loss of emotional control
- Paralysis and other physical impairments
- Memory loss
- Impaired cognition
Treating brain injuries with light
When your brain suffers an injury, the initial damage is often followed by secondary problems. Your body naturally uses inflammation to protect damaged tissues. However, in your skull, this can lead to excess pressure that damages blood vessels and neurons. In the past, the primary treatment after head injuries from motor vehicle accidents involved reducing pressure and allowing the brain to heal itself as much as possible.
A new technique known as low-level laser therapy uses near-infrared light to stimulate brain healing. Light of the right wavelength can pass through the scalp and skull without incisions. When it hits the brain, it stimulates mitochondria in the cells. These cellular components are not only the energy storehouses for cells, but they also play a part in cell growth and division. The laser therapy process may help start new brain cell growth and lead to a faster, more successful recovery.
Recovering from a brain injury
If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, there may be a challenging road ahead. Although the recovery takes time, scientists are constantly at work looking for better treatments. It may be that something as simple as light can lead to healing. You may want to consult a personal injury attorney about seeking compensation to pay for recovery.