Thomas Jefferson University
Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (cTBI) symptoms exist in individuals who experienced previous traumatic brain injuries. There are 80-90 thousand individuals who are clinically diagnosed with cTBI, with estimated costs at greater than 60 billion dollars. However, there is a lack of studies using comprehensive diagnostic imaging tools to better understand physiological ramifications of the injury that may help guide therapy. This study uses integrative medicine approaches for persons with cTBI. Another aim of this study will be a continuation of this protocol in an effort to address the ongoing distressing physiological and psychological (anxiety and depression) symptoms associated with cTBI. After completion of the initial 3 study arms, the investigators have amended the protocol to evaluate the physiological and psychological effects and potential symptom improvement of integrative medicine approaches in cTBI patients using the Neuro Emotive Technique (NET). Participants may be re-enrolled in the NET group after completion of participation in the initial study arms. The participants in the NET substudy will be interviewed about Subjective Units of Distress (SUDS) associated with the cTBI event initially and after completion of the NET sessions.
The purpose of this project was to create a comprehensive, extensive, longitudinal diagnostic evaluation of cTBI patients. The evaluation uses a battery of neurocognitive tests, laboratory levels of specific inflammatory compounds, and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) using Fluoro deoxyglucose (FDG) and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) at baseline and follow up. Participants were evaluated initially with PET, and then at approximately 3 and 6 months to determine the time course of changes within the brain associated with the integrative medicine approach. Three groups of particip…
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals with a history of TBI and complaints of persistent symptoms including cognitive impairment, emotional disturbances, headache, or other symptoms associated with TBI * Age 18-80 years old * Patients had no other pre-existing history (i.e. prior to the TBI) of significant medical, neurological, or psychological disorders such as schizophrenia or active substance abuse. * Minor, stable health problems that should have no substantial effect on cerebral blood flow will be allowed (i.e. controlled hypertension, medication controlled diabetes) * Able to give informed…
Integrative diet that reduces saturated fats and carbohydrates and emphasizes proteins and omega-3 fats that help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage.
Intravenous and Oral n-acetyl cysteine
Neuro Emotive Technique sessions