Study of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine to Improve Recovery After Head Injuries in Mixed Martial Arts Fighters

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate how osteopathic manipulative medicine OMM may help improve recovery after head injuries in mixed martial arts MMA fighters. Traumatic brain injury TBI, including concussion, can result from impacts to the head, affecting brain function without visible damage on traditional imaging. MMA fighters often experience head injuries that may disrupt hormone release and brain function. This study compares OMM treatment to a sham placebo procedure to see if OMM improves symptoms and cognitive recovery after head trauma. Participants will be assigned to receive either OMM or a sham-light-touch control procedure after a head injury during MMA fights. The OMM treatment involves hands-on adjustments focusing on the head, spine, rib cage, and pelvis to restore alignment and promote fluid circulation. Treatments are given in two sessions about 48 to 72 hours apart. The sham group receives light touch without therapeutic intent. Before and after the fight, participants undergo physical exams and cognitive tests. Video recordings of fights help model brain impact dynamics. Participants will attend 2 to 4 visits over one week, including in-person physical exams and online cognitive neuropsychology tests assessing memory, reaction time, and symptoms. Optional urine and blood sugar tests and hormone referrals may be offered. Researchers will measure changes in osteopathic structural exams, cognitive test scores, and computational models of brain injury. Safety and health findings will be communicated to participants. The study aims to improve understanding of OMM effects on concussion recovery in MMA fighters.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment RCT and Computational Modeling for Head Injuries in Mixed Martial Artists