Choosing light therapy devices based on concussion research
Here at Concussion Alliance, we have people contacting us for information about using light therapy for persistent post-concussion symptoms. The questions usually are about which device would be best, and how to use them - how many days a week, for instance. The suggestions below are based on our communication with leading researchers and clinicians in the field and our understanding of current research. For more information, read our Light Therapy treatment page.
The basics of light therapy devices used in research
Vielight Neuro Gamma 3
Vielight Neuro Alpha 3
Vielight Neuro Duo 3 and 633 Red Intranasal
How to use light therapy devices
Related blog posts about light therapy
The basics of light therapy devices in use in research
Most of the research studies on light therapy for the brain are using devices made by Vielight, a Canadian company. Some older studies used the MedX devices which are only available through a clinician. To learn more about the MedX, see our page on Light Therapy / Photobiomodulation.
Current studies on light therapy for persistent concussion symptoms are using either the Vielight Neuro Alpha or the Vielight Neuro Gamma, which are transcranial headsets that include an intranasal clip. Vielight recently did a design update so the devices are now the Neuro Alpha 3 and the Neuro Gamma 3. The redesign has not affected the light output of the Neuro series; what has changed is that the controller, which used to be separate, is now attached to the headset. It is not always clear if a particular research study is using the Neuro or the newer Neuro 3 device, but the light output is the same.
The Neuro Alpha 3 produces near-infrared light pulsed at 10 Hz, and the Neuro Gamma 3 provides near-infrared light pulsed at 40 Hz. The research into light therapy for the brain is so new that no one really knows whether to suggest the Neuro Alpha 3 or the Neuro Gamma 3. Researchers believe that either device will likely be effective; however, there are some important distinctions between them. Some of the research is also incorporating the use of the Vielight 633 Red Intranasal, which produces continuous red light.
Vielight Neuro Gamma 3 – pulsed at 40 Hz
Overview
Researchers are focused on the potential cognitive benefits of near-infrared light pulsed at 40 Hz. Current research is based on the groundbreaking study by an MIT research lab in 2017 that found that mice bred to have Alzheimer’s had improved cognition after being exposed to near-infrared light pulsed at 40 Hz. When the mice were dissected, the amyloid plaques and tau deposits associated with Alzheimer’s were significantly reduced.
A 2019 study found that after one treatment with the Vielight Neuro Gamma, there was an increase in gamma, alpha, and beta brain waves; these brain waves are considered important in attention and cognition.
The Neuro Gamma 3 may be effective for when a progressive, neurodegenerative disease is suspected, such as possible CTE (and Alzheimer’s), and for older people, such as 50 years of age or older. It may help younger people — see the information below. Do not use the Vielight Neuro Gamma 3 for those with a history of PTSD or significant anxiety, as the 40 Hz pulse may be overstimulating.
Vielight Neuro Gamma 3 in current research
Vielight Neuro Gamma 3
The University of Utah TBI and Concussion Center, Department of Neurology School of Medicine conducted a study, using the Vielight Neuro Gamma, entitled Use of PBM to Improve Brain Health and Resiliency in Individuals with Repetitive Head Hits: A Pilot Study. They are currently compiling the results and will publish them next year. Read about this study in our blog post.
Researchers at the Boston VA Medical Center, and Boston University School of Medicine, Neurology, conducted recent case studies of light therapy that showed positive effects for retired pro football players with neurodegenerative symptoms — the study includes documentation of positive effects from Vielight Neuro Gamma home use. Read about these case studies in our blog post.
A former athlete in their 30s who had a history of repetitive head impacts and debilitating symptoms had significantly positive effects from using the Vielight Neuro Gamma. The study was conducted by The University of California, San Francisco, Departments of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging and Psychiatry & Behavioral Science, and the San Francisco VA Health Care System. The researchers who are planning a larger clinical trial. Read about this study in our blog post.
There is an ongoing clinical trial at the University of Toronto using the Vielight Neuro Gamma for Alzheimer’s; read more about the clinical trial. Previous small clinical trials showed positive results for Alzheimer’s patients.
Vielight Neuro Alpha 3 – pulsed at 10 Hz
Overview
Researchers are recommending the Neuro Alpha 3 for those under age 50 and without suspected progressive neurodegenerative disease. They recommend the Neuro Alpha 3 for people with PTSD or significant anxiety, as it will not be overstimulating.
The positive effects of near-infrared light (whether 10 Hz or 40 Hz) include increased cerebral blood flow, increased (ATP) energy production, increased neuroprotection and brain repair, and reduced inflammation.
Vielight Neuro Alpha 3
Vielight Neuro Alpha 3 in current research
Vielight Neuro Alpha for Alzheimer’s research
The Boston VA Research Institute, Inc. and the VA Boston Healthcare System are currently running a study if light therapy can improve thinking and memory in people who have suffered one or more mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions and subconcussive impacts. To learn about the study, including how to apply to enroll in the study, please read our blog post.
A 2017 case series report found the Vielight Neuro Alpha to have positive effects on cognition in mild to moderately severe dementia cases.
Vielight Neuro Alpha use with veterans with chronic post-concussive symptoms
A VA blog post, titled Gulf War Veteran says his memory has improved and energy is up, discusses a program that provides LED light therapy to veterans; the device being used is the Vielight Neuro Alpha. The program is through the Center for Compassionate Care Innovation and the VA Boston Healthcare System, Rehabilitation Medicine Services, LED TBI CLINIC.
Vielight Neuro Duo 3
Vielight Neuro Duo 3
The Vielight Neuro Duo is a new option. It combines the Neuro Alpha (10Hz) and the Neuro Gamma (40Hz) in a combination device. The controller, which is attached to the headset, has a switch that allows you to select between the Alpha and Gamma modes.
Vielight 633 Red Intranasal - continuous red light
A new development is the use of continuous red light applied through the nose, in addition to the use of the transcranial headsets. It is hypothesized that the red light passes into the blood vessels and improves blood circulation, via its effect on the mitochondria in blood platelets. The theory is that red light has a whole body or systemic effect. Our blog post about the case studies with the retired pro football players discusses the use of the Vielight 633 Intranasal in addition to the Vielight Neuro Gamma.
How to use light therapy devices
Vielight Neuro Alpha 3, Neuro Gamma 3, or Neuro Duo 3
All the research studies listed above (which use Vielight Neuro Alpha or the Neuro Gamma) and the VA LED light therapy program use this protocol:
Three days a week, with 48 hours between treatments. For example, treatments are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The devices have a built-in timer of 20 minutes.
Vielight 633 Red Intranasal
The case studies with the retired pro football players, in which the individuals used the Vielight 633 Red Intranasal for home use, used this protocol:
Six days a week. The device has a 25-minute timer. It’s OK to use the 633 Red Intranasal at the same time as the Neuro Alpha or the Neuro Gamma; this means that you will have an intranasal clip in each nostril.
Want to learn more about Light Therapy?
Please see our treatment page on Light Therapy / Photobiomodulation.
Related blog posts
Disclaimer
This article is for information purposes only. No medical claims are made. By providing the information contained herein, we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing disease or medical condition. Before beginning any treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.
In an interview, RJ discusses his potential CTE and his positive experience as a participant in a University of Utah photobiomodulation (light therapy) study. RJ played high school and college football, experiencing repetitive head impacts and multiple concussions.