LED-based light therapy ‘could aid recovery from brain injuries’

New research has discovered that self-administered light therapy could be used as a means of encouraging recovery following traumatic brain injuries.

A US study published in the journal Photomedicine and Laser Surgery revealed that daily application of light therapy via light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can lead to improvements in cognitive functionality and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The phototherapy technique works by delivering red and near-infrared light energy to improve cellular metabolism, which offers physiological benefits.

In the new research, two case studies saw patients experience enhancements in memory, inhibition and attention when using LED-based therapy, with gains decreasing if treatment was ceased.

Dr Raymond Lanzafame, editor-in-chief of the medical journal, said: "The results of this study will provide a basis for future therapeutic use of phototherapy to improve recovery after injury and facilitate management of other central nervous system disorders."

Earlier this month, US-based Biolux Research commenced a study which aims to determine whether phototherapy techniques can be used to facilitate orthodontic tooth movement and accelerate treatment timelines.