Laser Therapy for Concussions – Acute (<3 months)

Figure 1: Total Rivermead symptom severity score for patients recovering from a concussion within the last 3 months – acute. Patients were discharged at a score < 5 unless by patient’s own discretion.

TX – treatment

Laser Therapy for Concussions – Chronic (>3 months)

Figure 2: Total Rivermead symptom severity score for patients struggling with PCS due to a concussion greater than 3 months ago – chronic PCS. Patients were discharged at a score of < 5 unless by the patient’s own discretion.

TX – treatment

Okanagan Laser Solutions – Concussion Study

ABSTRACT: Efficacy of low-intensity laser therapy in patients with acute concussion and chronic post-concussion syndrome

Thiel, M. 

BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION: In Canada, 210,000 concussions are reported each year, with many more going unreported. Current government guidelines for concussion treatment involve rest and gradual return to activity. There is no recommendation of or reference to resources regarding treatment of lingering symptoms of concussion. Approximately 50% of concussion patients report symptoms greater than 3 months after incident, classified as post- concussion syndrome (PCS). The median duration of PCS symptoms is 7 months, with many experiencing years of impairment; however, one study found 84% of participants still experience psychological deficit(s) two years after initial injury. Low-intensity laser therapy (LILT) and its anti-inflammatory effects may provide improvement in concussion and PCS symptoms.

AIMS: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine potential efficacy of LILT in treating concussion and PCS.

Methods: Participants (n = 12; age 38.67 ± 16.70; 9 females, 3 males) will be enrolled in a program with LILT treatments twice per week for at least 4 weeks, with maximum being 8 weeks depending on the patient’s response or resolution. Treatments will focus on the suboccipital muscles, as well as the cervical spine and its supporting musculature. Symptoms will be monitored using the Rivermead PCS questionnaire and subjective reporting.

Clinic Significance: Patients showed an average decrease of 45% in symptom severity after 4 treatments. Acute concussion patients showed a 89% average decrease in severity of symptoms, after an average of 9 treatments, while chronic PCS patients showed a 77% decrease in symptom severity after an average of 13 treatments. Subjective patient reports show an improvement in impairment, most notably in headaches, dizziness, fatigue, light and noise sensitivity, and ability to concentrate in both groups. A reduction in symptoms during both physical and mental exercise was also noted. This pilot study shows that LILT has potential to contribute to improved recovery from concussion and resolution of PCS. These results can inform large-scale studies to improve upon current brain injury treatment options.