This is a recent study published by Miller et al., 2022. Here is a summary of the study, findings, and conclusions. Reference: Miller, M. R., DiBattista, A., Patel, M. A., Daley, M., Tenn, C., Nakashima, A., … & Fraser, D. D. (2022). A Distinct Metabolite Signature in Military Personnel Exposed to Repetitive Low-Level Blasts. Frontiers in… Continue reading New Research: A Distinct Metabolite Signature in Military Personnel Exposed to Repetitive Low-Level Blasts
Tag: Blast
What are Low Level Blasts?
Low level blasts (LLB) are created by weapons whose blasts create an overpressure wave, but a single exposure is not enough to create any obvious brain damage or cause symptoms. Examples of LLB are firing a 0.50 caliber sniper rifle, Howitzers, Carl Gustaf rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, light anti-tank weapons, shotgun door-breaching rounds, mortars, M4 Carbine… Continue reading What are Low Level Blasts?
An Intangible Slowing Down
A 37-year-old male active-duty special operator was referred to me a few years ago who described an intangible feeling of slowing down, particularly in more visually stimulating environments. He was preparing for his retirement, and finally had time to start addressing some issues he ignored or “rubbed dirt on” throughout his career. There was no… Continue reading An Intangible Slowing Down
Blast Exposures and Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease
Subconcussive head trauma are sufficient in increasing vulnerability to developing young onset Parkinson’s Disease. [1] This includes subconcussive blast exposures. [2] There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Current medical strategy is to decrease the impact it has on quality of life. As a Physical Therapist I’ve been part of healthcare teams doing that… Continue reading Blast Exposures and Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease
Know Your Neurotrauma: Blast Exposures
As a tactical athlete you are frequently exposed to low level blasts. It is important to know that cumulative exposure to these subconcussive blasts can slowly chip away at your performance and brain health. An important study out of Walter Reed Medical Center has looked at the impact of blast exposures on active duty military… Continue reading Know Your Neurotrauma: Blast Exposures
Barotrauma
Barotrauma is injury due to blast exposure. It is a unique subconcussive exposure that tactical athletes are exposed to. There are a lot of different ways that tactical athletes are exposed to barotrauma, – IED – Grenades – Breaching explosives – Weapon fire The most cumulative exposure of subconcussive events is weapon fire due to… Continue reading Barotrauma