Mixed martial arts competitions have never been more popular throughout the United States and the rest of the world. In fact, to say that the combat sport gets the adrenaline pumping is an understatement. However, what spectators find exciting and entertaining can prove to riskier than what MMA fighters and their trainers may initially believe—and we aren’t just talking about getting beaten up. There is also a significant risk of neurological damage, which may lead to neurodegenerative disorders and movement dysfunction.
One of the most difficult aspects of diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders is the fact that many symptoms are quite subtle, especially in the early stages. This often leads to delayed treatment. Fortunately, medical researchers may have found a way to detect neurodegenerative disorders early on with the help of MRI technology.
A recent study involving various MMA fighters shows that MRI scans were able to pick up on a set of seven imaging predictors. Some of these predictors were described as indicators of possible cognitive impairment, as well as help differentiate those who were cognitively impaired and those who were not.
Why does this matter? This research is not just for the sake of MMA fighters. Over the last few years, concussion awareness has grown thanks to efforts from various institutions and sports leagues. Continuing this research can prove to be beneficial for other athletes who play in rough and physical contact sports like football or hockey. At the same time, this research may prove useful in clinical trials that involve therapeutics designed to reduce cognitive impairment.
Overall, the research is still in its early stages, but it does inspire hope for the future of diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders. For now, however, athletes are more than welcome to have an MRI scan done at a trusted center like Glendale MRI Institute to help assess a variety of injuries, as well as help detect a few neurological issues. Don’t forget: early detection is the key to successful treatment.
One of the most difficult aspects of diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders is the fact that many symptoms are quite subtle, especially in the early stages. This often leads to delayed treatment. Fortunately, medical researchers may have found a way to detect neurodegenerative disorders early on with the help of MRI technology.
A recent study involving various MMA fighters shows that MRI scans were able to pick up on a set of seven imaging predictors. Some of these predictors were described as indicators of possible cognitive impairment, as well as help differentiate those who were cognitively impaired and those who were not.
Why does this matter? This research is not just for the sake of MMA fighters. Over the last few years, concussion awareness has grown thanks to efforts from various institutions and sports leagues. Continuing this research can prove to be beneficial for other athletes who play in rough and physical contact sports like football or hockey. At the same time, this research may prove useful in clinical trials that involve therapeutics designed to reduce cognitive impairment.
Overall, the research is still in its early stages, but it does inspire hope for the future of diagnosing and treating neurodegenerative disorders. For now, however, athletes are more than welcome to have an MRI scan done at a trusted center like Glendale MRI Institute to help assess a variety of injuries, as well as help detect a few neurological issues. Don’t forget: early detection is the key to successful treatment.
Source:
MRI
May Help Predict Cognitive Impairment in Professional Fighters,
itnonline.com
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