Red for Recovery: New Therapy Boosts Nerve Cell Growth in Spinal Cords

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Red Spine

Red lights may be good for your back. Researchers stimulated nerve cell growth in damaged spinal cords with photobiomodulation (PBM).

• PBM = using red and near-infrared light to promote healing

• Rat nerve cells increased 45% after 5 days of PBM (in vitro)

• Axon length increased 21-26% within 3 days (in vivo)

In vivo experiments showed similar results from invasive and non-invasive treatments. Supporting the potential for human clinical trials and relief for spinal cord injuries. Until then, we can enjoy our time at traffic lights.

Source: New Atlas

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