Skip to content

Study Details

Using Light Therapy to Promote Brain Health in People with Moderate to Severe Brain Injury and Stroke

(IRB#: IRB_00163429)

This study tests the effects of a specific light therapy called photobiomodulation (PBM) on brain health and resiliency for individuals experiencing moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke. PBM, also known as low-level light therapy, involves shining red or near-infrared light onto the head with a device. People in the study will first complete a pre-assessment, which includes several parts. This includes cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and overall thinking abilities and surveys about any symptoms experienced and medical history. Participants will also have an MRI, a scan that takes pictures of your brain. After this, participants will learn how to use the light therapy device. Participants will then complete light therapy sessions at home for 12 weeks, tracking usage. Participants will return for a post-assessment at the end of the 12 weeks. This final assessment will be like the first, with cognitive tests, surveys, and another MRI.

I AM INTERESTED

  • All genders
  • Over 18 years old
  • Volunteers with special conditions
  •   In Person
  • Unpaid

Who can participate?

 Gender: All genders

  Age: Over 18 years old

  Volunteers: Volunteers with special conditions

   Location: In Person

Inclusion Criteria

  • 18 to 65 years of age
  • History of a moderate-severe traumatic brain injury and/or stroke
  • Persistent symptoms following the injury or stroke. This may include difficulty concentrating, sleep problems, memory loss, motor problems, personality changes, sensitivity to light or noise

Exclusion Criteria

  • History of severe psychiatric disorder (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, dissociative disorder)
  • Received red light therapy treatment within the last 12 months
  • History of neurological diseases (Parkinsons, Alzheimers/Dementia, brain tumor, epilepsy)

Will I be paid for my time?

No

For more information contact:

Courtney McCabe

mod.sev.tbi@hsc.utah.edu

  801-503-9184

IRB#: IRB_00163429

PI: Elisabeth Wilde

Department: NEUROLOGY

Approval Date: 2024-06-12 06:00:00

Study Categories: Brain Health Studies, Mental Health and Well-being Studies

Specialties: Neurology, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Last Updated: 6/8/23