Video Summary:
Dive deep into the intricate world of the neuroinflammatory cascade of concussion as we unravel its complexities together. Driven by Dr. Erik Reis’s expertise, this exploration aims to empower you with a fresh perspective on concussions and the game-changing potential of Erchonia® Lasers.
The Intricacy of Head Trauma
Sports and Their Role: Football and soccer lead in sports-related head traumas. Often, these don’t manifest as full-blown concussions but as micro-concussions. Over time, these repeated traumas can pave the way for significant neurological damage, inflammation, and changes in the brain.
Neuroplasticity – The Brain’s Superpower: The concept of neuroplasticity has its roots in the 1850s. It signifies the brain’s incredible ability to adapt and change throughout one’s lifetime. Think of it as the reason someone can master a new skill at any age.
Delving into the Brain’s Complex Web
A Glimpse Into DTI Imaging: The brain’s complex neural network, with thousands of neurons, can be visualized using DTI imaging. Traumas can cause a shearing of these neural pathways, leading to serious repercussions.
The Game-Changer: Low-Level Laser Therapy
The Mechanism: Low-level laser therapy impacts the cytochrome c oxidase enzyme, essential for ATP production in the mitochondria. This therapy aids in stabilizing neural membranes and can even influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which impacts hormone production and the microbiome.
Challenges With Imaging: Despite the advancements in imaging, it often falls short in diagnosing immediate traumatic events.
TBI and Whiplash: A surprising 1.7 million people experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) annually. Often, the symptoms of a whiplash and post-concussion overlap, presenting a challenge in effective treatment.
Neurological and Metabolic Impacts: Concussions and traumas induce structural, neurological, and metabolic shifts. Low-level laser therapy provides a potent tool to address these changes, fostering better recovery.
The Visual and Vestibular System
The Intricate Visual System: Much of the treatment focus for concussions should lean towards understanding the visual systems and their complexities.
The Vestibular System: Integral for balance and spatial orientation, disturbances in this system can lead to cognitive and sensory challenges. Addressing vestibular issues can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life.
The Neck’s Role in Brain Health
The Neck and Sensory Feedback: After a traumatic event or concussion, the neck’s role in providing sensory feedback to the brain is pivotal. This can significantly affect the brain’s understanding of its spatial position.
Low-Level Laser and Neck Pain: With Erchonia’s lasers, patients have experienced a 45.4% decrease in pain scores related to neck issues.
Molecular Cascades and Their Implications
Damage and Recovery: Concussions can trigger oxidative stress, blood flow changes, inflammation, and cellular permeability changes. Low-level laser therapy proves to be a valuable tool in mitigating these effects.
Neurodegenerative Processes: Current research is fervently exploring low-level laser therapy’s potential in halting neurodegenerative processes by dampening microglial activity.
The Fuel Mechanism and Brain Functionality
Glucose or Ketones? Both play essential roles in brain function. ATP production, regulated by the mitochondria and Kreb cycles, is vital for long-term energy production and brain health.
Neuroplasticity Revisited: Over the past two decades, research shows that using different brain areas can lead to improved functionality. The goal is enhanced efficiency and quality of life.
The Power of Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy provides a non-invasive avenue to provide fertile ground for healing and growth. With the proper assessment and diagnosis, concussions can be effectively treated, leading to improved patient care.
The Future With Erchonia® Lasers
Erchonia invests significantly in discovering new ways to revolutionize patient care. In both animal and human models, low-level laser therapy has shown promising results across various ailments, including brain injuries, optic nerve injuries, ALS, and even Parkinson’s.
Wrapping Up
Every patient is unique, and as providers, understanding the holistic picture is paramount. Tools like Erchonia’s lasers provide an edge in treatment. As Dr. Reis highlighted, it’s not merely about the technology; it’s about profoundly impacting lives.