Photobioregulation system for improving athletic performance

Abstract

A self-administered system for improving a subject's motor performance, comprising configured illumination units including first, second, third, and fourth configured illumination units, wherein (A) the first configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a first region of the brain including an OZ location of the primary visual cortex, (B) the second configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a second region of the brain including a CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex, (C) the third configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a third region of the brain including a C3 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex, and (D) the fourth configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a fourth region of the brain including a C4 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to photobiomodulation, and more particularly to a photobiomodulation system and method for improving athletic performance. [Background technology]

[0002] Spatial perception and position sense Spatial perception is the human ability to recognize the relationship between the surrounding environment and oneself.

[0003] Spatial perception and position sense are strongly related to sports and athletic performance. For example, professional soccer players generally have a higher than normal perception of their body kinematics, which helps them perform in response to complex and dynamic visual scenes. In figure skating, this ability is trained at the highest level. As another example, the achievement level of fencers is closely correlated with spatial perception-related skills such as visual discrimination, visual-spatial relationships, visual sequence memory, small focus, and visual information processing.

[0004] This also applies to eSports, competitive sports using video games: studies have shown that individuals who play eSports shooters at a high level have better developed spatial perception skills, including faster and more accurate performance in peripheral and identification tasks.

[0005] Visual Processing Visual processing refers to the brain's ability to access and interpret visual information from the world around us.

[0006] Visual processing is often linked to spatial perception: one study found that cricketers who were faster at retrieving information from a brief visual display were significantly better batsmen in real matches, while another study found that visual processing skills were important for hockey players' real-life performance on the ice.

[0007] motor skills A motor skill is an acquired ability to perform a given movement with maximal certainty. Motor learning is the relatively permanent change in ability to perform a skill as a result of practice or experience. Motor performance is the act of executing a motor skill. The goal of a motor skill is to optimize the ability to perform the skill successfully and accurately while reducing energy expenditure. This can be achieved by continued practice of a particular motor skill.

[0008] There are many types of motor skills used in sports, such as running, jumping, hopping, trotting, rolling, leaping, dodging, sliding, throwing, catching, kicking, hitting, dribbling, balancing, twisting, turning, bending, etc. A good example is gymnastics, which requires a high level of performance of many of the above motor skills.

[0009] Hand-eye coordination Hand-eye coordination is the coordinated control of eye and hand movements along with the processing of visual input, using the proprioception of the hand to guide the eyes while reaching out and grasping.

[0010] Hand-eye coordination is well known to be related to motor skills. In sports, tracking performance is improved if the eye and hand follow the same spatial trajectory, but even better if the eye is ahead of the hand by about 75-100 ms. This suggests that information from the eye control system is sent quickly to the hand motor control system to assist tracking and muscle movements, and is supported by spatial perception and other functions.

[0011] Reflex conditioning A reflex is a behavior that is performed in response to a stimulus and without deliberate thought. A conditioned reflex, also known as a conditioned response, is an acquired response in which the subject learns to associate a previously unrelated, neutral stimulus with another stimulus that elicits a particular response.

[0012] Good conditioning is important for many athletes who need to react quickly to stimuli and not be slowed down by thought. For example, a sprinter needs to be conditioned to react to the sound of the starting pistol (the stimulus) in under 200 milliseconds and begin sprinting; otherwise, he or she will be at an immediate disadvantage to the competition. As another example, a tennis player returns an oncoming shot without deliberate thought, and a player with good conditioning can quickly assess the flight of the ball and return it with precise timing and strength.

[0013] Movement Plasticity Plasticity refers to the brain's ability to change and adapt to environmental influences and training / learning. Professional athletes and those who want to become skilled must train consistently and with specificity to increase brain plasticity and strengthen muscle memory.

[0014] photobioregulation Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), is a biostimulation technique that has shown promise in treating several medical conditions, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease. PBM can be used to stimulate the brain to elicit desired results.

[0015] The biochemical mechanisms of PBM interactions can be categorized into direct and indirect effects. Direct effects include increased activity of ion channels such as Na+ / K+ATPase, while indirect effects include modulation of important second messengers such as calcium, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), all of which result in diverse biological cascades. These biological cascades lead to effects such as maintaining homeostasis and activating protective, antioxidant and proliferative gene factors, as well as systemic responses such as cerebral blood flow, which is deficient in neurocognitive disorders.

[0016] The most well-explored mechanism of action of PBM is its fundamental effect on mitochondrial function. PBM has been demonstrated to increase the activity of complexes of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, including complexes I, II, III, IV and succinate dehydrogenase. In complex IV, the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) acts as a photoacceptor and transducer. CCO specifically accepts and converts light of red (620-700 nm) and near-infrared (780-1110 nm) wavelengths, which can be processed by PBM. This process increases the amount of ATP produced, as well as cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increased ATP increases the activity of ion channels that regulate cAMP and calcium. As a result, diverse biological cascades are stimulated, activating up to 110 genes for transcription, which leads to healing and recovery activities and prolonged energy production by mitochondria. One of the most prominent responses to PBM is the activation of the sodium pump and Na+ / K+ATPase, which results in better membrane stability and resistance to depolarization.

[0017] In addition to increasing levels of ATP and cAMP, PBM has been observed to increase nitric oxide (NO) levels. When photons are absorbed by CCOs, NO dissociates from the CCOs. Dissociation of NO from CCOs enhances ATP production, acts as a vasodilator and lymphatic dilator, and activates many beneficial cellular pathways.

[0018] It would be advantageous to use PBM to improve motor skills, which can be achieved through improvements in spatial perception, visual processing, hand-eye coordination, reflex conditioning, motor skills, and plasticity involved in movement. Summary of the Invention

[0019] In one aspect, the present invention provides a self-administered system for improving athletic performance in a subject, the system comprising: A configured illumination unit including or consisting of first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units, each of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units including a portable hollow casing having a dimensioned, sized interior spatial volume and an exterior surface configuration suitable for mounting to a skull, the portable hollow casing of each configured illumination unit comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured outer surface of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit, the light-generating unit being capable of collectively generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; It consists of: the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units are capable of emitting light energy after being attached to a skull, and the emitted light energy is capable of passing through the skull to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo; A configured illumination unit; a frame adapted to support the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surfaces of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units at fixed positions on a skull in a desired illumination direction; a handheld controller assembly capable of controlling on-demand delivery of light energy from the configured illumination unit to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo, the controller assembly comprising: (a) a portable, replenishable, on-demand source of direct current; (b) a central processing unit for controlling and directing such flow of direct current; (c) at least one connector in electrical communication with the power source for delivering direct current to the central processing unit on demand; and (d) at least one connector in electrical communication with the configured illumination unit for transmitting direct current from said central processing unit to said light-generating unit on demand; a controller assembly having In a system comprising: (A) the first configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a first region of the brain that includes an OZ location of the primary visual cortex; (B) the second configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a second region of the brain that includes a CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (C) the third configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a third region of the brain including a C3 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (D) the fourth configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a fourth region of the brain including a C4 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; Provide a system.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention provides a self-administered method for improving athletic performance in a subject, the method comprising: A configured illumination unit including or consisting of first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units, each of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units including a portable hollow casing having a dimensioned, sized interior spatial volume and an exterior surface configuration suitable for mounting to a skull, the portable hollow casing of each configured illumination unit comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured outer surface of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit, the light-generating unit being capable of collectively generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; It consists of: the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units are capable of emitting light energy after being attached to a skull, and the emitted light energy is capable of passing through the skull to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo; A configured illumination unit; a frame adapted to support the first and second configured illumination units and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surfaces of the first and second configured illumination units at fixed positions on a skull in a desired illumination direction; a handheld controller assembly capable of controlling on-demand delivery of light energy from the configured illumination lens to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo, the controller assembly comprising: (a) a portable, replenishable, on-demand source of direct current; (b) a central processing unit for controlling and directing such flow of direct current; (c) at least one connector in electrical communication with the power source for delivering direct current to the central processing unit on demand; and (d) at least one connector in electrical communication with the configured illumination unit for transmitting direct current from said central processing unit to said light-generating unit on demand; a controller assembly having obtaining a light energy emitting device comprising: positioning transparent exterior surfaces of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units in desired fixed positions adjacent the subject's skull such that light energy emitted by the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units penetrates the skull and enters at least a portion of the subject's brain in-vivo; causing the light generating units of the configured illumination units to generate light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths on demand at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain of the subject, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; A method comprising: (A) the first configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a first region of the brain that includes an OZ location of the primary visual cortex; (B) the second configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a second region of the brain that includes a CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (C) the third configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a third region of the brain including a C3 location of the primary motor cortex; (D) the fourth configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a fourth region of the brain including a C4 location of the primary motor cortex; A method is provided.

[0021] The present invention will be better understood and more readily appreciated when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a rear view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a top view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention applied to a subject. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention applied to a subject. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention applied to a subject. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention applied to a subject. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a system of the present invention having an intranasal unit applied to a subject. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a system of the present invention having an intranasal unit applied to a subject. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a system of the present invention having an intranasal unit applied to a subject. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a system of the present invention having an intranasal unit applied to a subject. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred intranasal unit for use in an alternative embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of a suitable intranasal unit for use in an alternative embodiment of the system of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is another perspective view of a suitable intranasal unit for use in an alternative embodiment of the system of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The present invention relates to a wearable device for improving reflex-based performance in sports and athletics. Preferably, the device improves one or more of human spatial and visual perception, target discrimination, and hand-eye coordination, resulting in faster and more accurate motor responses. The device uses photobiomodulation (PBM) and preferably provides near-infrared light at about 810 nm. Other adjustable parameters of the device may preferably include position, pulse frequency, and phase synchronization of the light-generating unit.

[0024] Preferred System / Apparatus Components The systems and devices of the present invention preferably include at least the following components: (1) A portable hollow casing; (2) one or more light-generating units contained within an interior spatial volume of the hollow casing; (3) current source; (4) a process controller assembly; and (5) Optionally, a smartphone, tablet computer or other computing device.

[0025] These components may preferably be electrically coupled by at least one connector for transmitting direct current from the current source to the controller assembly and at least one connector for transmitting direct current from the controller assembly to the light-generating unit.

[0026] 1. Portable hollow casing The present invention includes at least one portable hollow casing having a dimensionally sized interior spatial volume and an exterior surface configuration suitable for attachment to a subject. The intended purpose and goal of the portable casing is twofold: (i) to act as a containment chamber configured for easy attachment to a subject, and (ii) to act as a shaped lens that reflects and directs emitted light waves toward the subject.

[0027] Preferably, the portable casing may be made and formed of a light-transmitting material covering at least a portion of its exterior surface, including a volumetric area thereof intended to house and confine at least one light-generating unit. By definition, such light-transmitting materials include and encompass transparent, translucent, and opaque substances, although in most cases completely clear transparent substances are preferred.

[0028] 2. Light generating unit The light generating unit may provide therapeutic light at wavelengths including, but not necessarily limited to: (i) in the visible color spectrum range, visible red light having a wavelength in the range of about 620-780 nm, and (ii) in the non-visible spectrum range, near infrared light having a wavelength in the range of about 780-1400 nm. Additionally, the generated waves and particles of light energy may alternatively be (i) either coherent (such as a laser) or incoherent (such as a non-laser light emitting diode (LED)), (ii) either pulsed or non-pulsed (continuous wave) in delivery, (iii) either constant or non-constant in intensity, (iv) either uniform or non-uniform in phase, (v) polarized and unpolarized, and (vi) regular or irregular in flux.

[0029] Any conventionally known means for generating electromagnetic radiation or articles for propagating radiant energy are acceptable for use in the present device. Most embodiments are intended and contemplated to use either low level laser units or LEDs as the light generating units for illumination purposes.

[0030] 3.Current source A portable, replenishable, on-demand source of direct current is preferably present as a component of the devices and systems of the present invention. The treatment systems and methods provided by the present invention are intended to deliver a specific energy dose (measured in Joules), which is a function of the power (watts) and time (seconds) that is believed to be effective for each treatment.

[0031] The power source typically delivers energy in the form of direct current. A sufficient amount of current can be delivered repeatedly, for example, from a single battery source or from a set of multiple dry cell batteries coupled together in series or parallel. In some other preferred embodiments, the power source is in the form of a rechargeable mobile battery, a direct current battery unit (which can be charged from a standard household AC outlet), or alternating current (AC) via a power adapter. It is envisioned and intended that there are several alternative embodiments with different combinations of these components, suitable for configurations with different power, energy capacity, and treatment times.

[0032] In terms of location, in some preferred embodiments the power source is a separate entity that is contained and contained entirely within the internal confines of the controller assembly, although in other preferred embodiments the current source may be a self-contained separate and independent unit that communicates electrically with the controller assembly via an electrical cable and connector module linkage, such as a portable and rechargeable power bank, In alternative embodiments the current source is obtained by connecting the system and device to a local electrical grid via a power adapter.

[0033] 4. Process Controller Assembly The process controller assembly is a component of a portable unit that has at least three structural features: (i) a receiving circuit for receiving current as transferred from the current source to the controller assembly; (ii) a central processing unit (CPU) for controlling and directing the flow of electrical current as received by the controller assembly over a period of time; and (iii) a supply circuit for supplying direct current from the controller assembly to the light-generating unit.

[0034] Because the process controller assembly is in electrical communication with other critical components of the equipment, it is typically intended and contemplated that it will also have the following: (a) at least one connector for transferring direct current from a current source to a controller assembly; and (b) at least one connector for carrying direct current from the controller assembly to the light-generating unit; These connectors are typically formed as insulated copper wire cables and jack modules, thereby allowing quick and easy connection and electrical communication with both the current source and the light-generating unit.

[0035] It is intended and contemplated that interchangeable electrical cables and connectors, as are known in the art, may be used to couple the controller assembly to the illumination lenses, which also provides a distinct advantage and benefit to the user, namely the option to exchange one configured illumination lens (capable of transmitting light at a first wavelength) for another illumination lens (capable of transmitting light at a second, different wavelength), thereby enabling the use of a variety of different lasers and alternative light emitting diodes to provide a variety of different wavelengths of visible and invisible light energy with a single controller assembly.

[0036] In some preferred embodiments, the current source is internal and contained within the interior spatial volume of the controller assembly and appears as a battery (either dry cell or rechargeable unit), in which case the controller assembly also has a socket adapted to accept an insulated copper cable and modular jack connector, the other end of which is coupled to a light-generating unit located within the hollow casing.

[0037] The central processing unit ("CPU") of the controller assembly is preferably capable of adjusting the light energy with respect to a number of different parameters, including wavelength, coherency / synchronization, energy (Joules (J)), power (Watts (W) or milliwatts (mW)) or irradiance (W / cm 2 ), radiation exposure (J / cm 2), exposure time (seconds), pulse mode (continuous or pulsed), frequency (Hertz (Hz)), duty cycle (percentage), fraction protocol (number of patient treatment sessions), light beam size (area of ​​the reaching beam), and light beam penetration (delivery) distance.

[0038] The process controller assembly will not operate without a current source. The controller assembly is also preferably a circuit that provides power to drive the light-generating unit properly and efficiently, besides switching off the unit after a predefined time. The controller also ensures that the power provided to the light-generating unit is constant. It is therefore desirable to monitor the strength of the battery when the power source is a mobile battery or battery, and switch off the unit if the mobile battery or battery is not providing enough power to properly drive the circuit.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the controller is part of the headset assembly, or alternatively, the controller is separate from the headset but connected via a communications cable.

[0040] 5. Smartphones, tablet computers or other computing devices In an alternative embodiment, the functions of the controller assembly are controlled in whole or in part by a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or any suitable computing device. For example, the smartphone may operate on one of the more common mobile platforms. The light-generating unit can be connected to the smartphone via a cable or wirelessly. The smartphone is equipped with a downloadable software application that substantially replicates the software functions in the controller assembly. A modified attachment containing interface processing software on a computer chip provides a physical connection between the existing controller and a proprietary smartphone platform. The software application also includes more software controls and graphic interfaces. Alternatives to the smartphone include a smartwatch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or any suitable computing device on which the software application is downloaded.

[0041] In yet another alternative embodiment, the controller assembly operates in cooperation with a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or any suitable computing device. In particular, the computing device has downloaded a software application that can: (i) turn the controller assembly on or off, and / or (ii) send instructions to the controller assembly to adjust parameters of the light energy of the individual light-generating units, including parameters such as wavelength, coherency / synchronization, energy (Joules (J)), power (Watts (W) or milliwatts (mW)) or irradiance (W / cm 2 ), radiation exposure or dose or frequency density (J / cm 2), exposure time (seconds), pulse mode (continuous or pulsed), frequency (Hertz (Hz)), duty cycle (percentage), fraction protocol (number of patient treatment sessions), light beam size (area of ​​the reaching beam), and light beam penetration (delivery) distance.

[0042] Additionally, the computing device can function as a system interface, with the user inputting commands through the interface to turn on or off the controller assembly and / or adjust parameters of the light energy of the individual light-generating units. The commands may be input by any known input element, such as a touch screen, a mouse, a keypad, a keyboard, a microphone, a camera or a video camera. When the user inputs a command into the system interface, the command is transmitted to the controller assembly, which adjusts parameters of the light energy provided by the light-generating units.

[0043] In these embodiments, the computing device can be connected to the controller assembly using any conventional known interchangeable electrical cable and connector. Alternatively, the computing device may communicate with the controller assembly by wireless means. The connection between these components is achieved using appropriate wired or wireless communications via protocols such as BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), 3G, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Universal Serial Bus (USB), and other protocols and technologies known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] Suitable targets for the system of the present invention According to the inventors' research, preferred targets for the system of the present invention include the primary visual cortex, the cerebellum, specific regions of the primary sensorimotor cortex, the hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex (EC).

[0045] Hippocampus and entorhinal cortex (EC) The inventor believes that the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex (EC) are suitable targets for PBM in the present invention. Spatial perception and position sense may be determined at least in part by place cells in the hippocampus and grid cells in the entorhinal cortex of the brain. The hippocampus and EC may combine to code spatial cognition and map the position of the body at each moment relative to the environment.

[0046] To improve spatial perception, it is necessary to recognize that the brain is plastic. Brain plasticity includes changes in neuronal connectivity. Our research shows that pulsed PBM can change brain connectivity. This effect on connectivity led us to propose that a direct projection from the olfactory bulb (located just above the nasal cavity) to the EC is the preferred connection between intranasal PBM and the hippocampus.

[0047] Furthermore, conditioning to "muscle memory" requires activity of the hippocampus and other related parts of the brain to encode new motor memories. Brain plasticity allows the brain to trigger and consolidate neuronal connections to make this possible. As mentioned above, our research shows that pulsed PBM can improve brain connectivity.

[0048] Based on the above, the inventors propose that using intranasal PBM is the preferred method of irradiating the EC and hippocampus.Thus, the system of the present invention preferably includes an intranasal PBM applicator, although this may be optionally removed.

[0049] Primary visual cortex and cerebellum The inventors also believe that the primary visual cortex is a suitable target for at least partially improving visual processing. The primary visual cortex, often referred to as V1, is the structure that consciously processes visual stimuli. This region is usually labeled V1 or, in the 10 / 20 system, described as OZ.

[0050] In addition, the inventors have determined that the cerebellum is also a suitable target. The cerebellum provides the "forward model" used in the control of movement, which is responsible for hand-eye coordination. In this role, the forward model generates time-specific signals that predict the movement of each motor effector, which is essential for predictive control of, for example, eye and hand movements.

[0051] The quality of reflexes also appears to be influenced by the health of the cerebellum, which lies immediately adjacent to the primary visual cortex. The uncontrolled movements of essential tremor may be related to a dysfunctional cerebellum.

[0052] The H-reflex is the electrical analogue of the spinal stretch reflex (SSR). Conditioning of the H-reflex appears to depend on a hierarchy of brain and spinal plasticity, which may involve the cerebellum. The inventors believe that the cerebellum is important in maintaining the conditioning of the reflex that has already taken place.

[0053] The cerebellum has also been reported to increase in volume in response to motor skill learning, which may be related to the acquisition of motor coordination.

[0054] Based on our research, a PBM device that stimulates subjects' visual processing, hand-eye coordination, reflex conditioning, and motor skill learning and performance would preferably target the primary visual cortex, the location of the OZ. Due to light scattering upon tissue penetration, light from the light-generating units of the OZ will cover both the primary visual cortex and the cerebellum.

[0055] Primary sensorimotor cortex Our research has also found that the primary sensorimotor cortex (herein referred to as "M1") is another suitable target for the system of the present invention. Each part of our body is represented by a separate area of ​​M1. Learning a new motor skill develops a motor program in M1 that is supported by synergies with other connected areas of the brain that are responsible for executing that motor skill. Motor programs and synergies develop in response to learning and plasticity.

[0056] Movements are executed via nerve impulses from the M1 region of the brain, which are transmitted to the spinal cord and control the execution of the movement. The areas of the sensorimotor cortex that lead to the movement of a particular part of the body are represented by different locations in the sensorimotor cortex. For hand movements, the locations are generally in the areas C3 (left) and C4 (right) identified by the 10 / 20 method.

[0057] In sports, optimal functioning of the sensorimotor cortex is highly desirable. It determines how well an athlete can strike a target quickly and accurately. Training the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) with vibration frequencies between 12 and 15 Hz may enhance sensorimotor function as well as improve focus and attention.

[0058] The inventors believe that PBM can optimize M1 neurons for plasticity by increasing blood flow to the stimulated area, increasing growth factor expression, and upregulating mitochondrial production. Collectively, these mechanisms create new neuronal connections. The system of the present invention may be preferably used immediately prior to a training session to prime the M1 for learning and training. The system may also be used during competition to enhance performance.

[0059] A system of the present invention covering the primary sensorimotor cortex (M1) preferably has three light emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned along M1 at locations corresponding to electroencephalography (EEG) montage locations CZ, C3, and C4. CZ is at the top of the head, and C3 and C4 are approximately 20% of the distance between the preauricular point and CZ.

[0060] Simultaneous activation of preferred targets by PBM In the present invention using PBM, it is beneficial and preferable to simultaneously activate the relevant compartments of the primary sensorimotor cortex, primary visual cortex and hippocampus.Obtaining proper brain plasticity integrated with repetitive training can improve motor skills.

[0061] According to the inventor's research, it is expected that simultaneous delivery of photons of relevant wavelengths to the sensorimotor cortex, visual cortex, cerebellum and hippocampus during training can be expected to promote improved reaction time and hand-eye coordination in sports performance. In PBM, apart from wavelength, power and exposure time, which lead to energy capacity, are also important in determining the results.

[0062] PBM Preferred Frequency Pulse rates affect different brainwave frequencies that are related to different brain states. For example, gamma brainwaves (above 30Hz) are associated with transient declines in higher brain processing, memory function, and even Alzheimer's disease markers. Slower waves (slower than 8Hz) are associated with disconnection from the environment and sleep. Rapid learning and plasticity may be activated at high gamma frequencies, while quality performance may be expressed at low gamma. To train SMR rhythms, we can target the sensorimotor cortex at 12-15Hz.

[0063] The inventors have explored the option of improving memory formation by encoding PBM with fast gamma (60-80Hz) or memory retrieval with slow gamma (40-50Hz). Both are within the scope of the present invention. The 80Hz brain frequency can be harmonically combined with a 40Hz frequency. Alternatively, LEDs can be pulsed at 12-15Hz for SMR training to improve focus and attention essential for sports performance.

[0064] Preferred embodiments of the system of the present invention In one preferred embodiment, the system of the present invention has the following features: 1. Three LED diodes with a wavelength of 810 nm (power: 100 mW / cm 2 ) are placed in the corresponding M1 areas CZ, C3, and C4 with a pulse frequency of 14 Hz. As an option to maintain this arrangement, the diodes in the primary motor cortex can be part of an attachable band, 2. One LED diode at 810 nm was placed on the primary visual cortex (also irradiating the cerebellum) (power: 30 mW / cm 2 ), optionally selecting a pulse frequency of 14Hz. 3. One removable intranasal LED at 810 nm (power: 25 mW / cm 2 ) with the option to select a pulse frequency of 14Hz. 4. The power source is a mobile battery. 5. Intranasal units can emit pulses that are out of phase (asynchronous) with other modules.

[0065] As shown in Figures 1-11, the present invention provides a preferred embodiment of an apparatus 100 having a transcranial phototherapy headset 102. Optionally, there is also an intranasal unit 200, as seen in Figures 12-18.

[0066] The controller assembly 150 can serve as the power source and central processing unit for both the transcranial headset 102 and the intranasal unit 200. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 1-18, the controller assembly 150 is located in the transcranial headset 102. In an alternative embodiment, the controller assembly 150 is a separate unit that can communicate with the transcranial headset 102 and the intranasal unit 200.

[0067] 1-11, the headset 102 includes one or more pre-configured illumination units 108, 110, 112 and 114, each of which has a portable hollow casing with fixed dimensions, a determined sized interior spatial volume and an exterior configuration suitable for attachment to the skull 502 of a subject 500.

[0068] The portable casing includes (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of an exterior surface configured for the hollow casing; and (ii) at least one light-generating unit contained entirely within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing, the light-generating unit being capable of generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths, at a predetermined energy intensity and for a predetermined duration sufficient to penetrate the skull 502 and enter the brain.

[0069] The headset 102 is provided with a frame 118 to support the configured illumination units 108, 110, 112, and 114 and to adapt the headset 102 to freely position the light-transmitting outer surfaces of the configured illumination units 108, 110, 112, and 114 in a fixed position on the skull 502 in a desired illumination direction. To facilitate fixing the headset 102 to the skull 502 and to make the headset 102 more comfortable for the subject 500 to wear, a support structure 128 is preferably provided.

[0070] In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 1-7, the frame 118 supports four configured illumination units 108, 110, 112 and 114, each configured illumination unit 108, 110, 112 and 114 having a light generating unit.

[0071] The four pre-configured illumination units 108, 110, 112 and 114 are positioned on the headset 102 to target specific locations. In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 8-11, the four pre-configured illumination units 108, 110, 112 and 114 are positioned to target the following portions of the subject 500: (A) The first area of ​​the brain containing the OZ location of the primary visual cortex, (B) A second region of the brain containing the CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex, (C) A third region of the brain, including the C3 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex, and (D) The fourth region of the brain containing the C4 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex.

[0072] As seen in FIGS. 12-18, the preferred system of the present invention optionally includes an intranasal phototherapy unit 200 having a nose clip 202 that holds a preconfigured illuminated lens 204 in one nostril of a subject. The preconfigured illuminated lens 204 has a portable hollow casing with fixed dimensions, a determined sized interior spatial volume, and an exterior configuration suitable for application to the inside of a nostril. The portable casing includes (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of the exterior configured for said hollow casing, and (ii) at least one light generating unit fully contained within said interior spatial volume of said hollow casing, the light generating unit capable of generating on demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity for a predetermined duration sufficient to penetrate nasal tissue and enter the brain.

[0073] The first connector 300 may be in electrical communication with the configured illumination units 108, 110, 112, and 114 of the transcranial headset 102. The second connector 400 may be in electrical communication with the configured illumination lens 204 of the intranasal phototherapy unit 200. This allows for on-demand delivery of direct current from a power source, such as via the controller assembly 150, to the light-generating units of the configured illumination units 108, 110, 112, and 114, as well as the light-generating unit of the configured illumination lens 204 of the intranasal phototherapy unit 200.

[0074] Experimental section the purpose The purpose of this study was to observe the effect of a preferred embodiment of the system of the present invention on an activity, specifically golf putting, with a preferred breakdown (training SMR rhythm at 14 Hz).

[0075] subject Four healthy male participants aged 46, 50, 55 and 58 volunteered to take part in the study. Not all were regular golf players.

[0076] procedure The golf putting facility chosen for the study was an indoor green at a large indoor golf practice facility isolated from outside environmental noise. Participants were required to stand 2.5 meters from the edge of a 10.8 cm diameter hole.

[0077] The procedure was carried out in the following steps. 1. During orientation (data not used in analysis), participants made 10 consecutive putts each until they achieved a cumulative average of 30% successful putts. 2. During SMR training, two participants, ages 50 and 58, performed a series of 40 putts on alternating days wearing the system of the present invention. Two participants, ages 46 and 55, were the control group who performed the same activity but did not use the present invention. This was done over a two week period. The distance between the edge of the hole and the edge of the ball after each putt was measured. At the end of each day, the average distance was measured for each participant. 3. Results were collected and analyzed at the end of the second week.

[0078] result The mean distance for the active SMR group in the pre-test and post-test using the system of the present invention was 32.15 cm and 20.62 cm, respectively. The mean distance improvement was 11.53 cm or 35.86%. The control group distance was 26.67 cm and 24.28 cm, respectively. The control group mean distance improvement was 2.39 cm or 8.96%.

[0079] The active SMR group using the system of the present invention showed significantly greater improvement in golf putting than the control group. This data suggests that there is potential for using the present invention to improve hand-eye coordination in target-based sports.

[0080] The scope of the claims is not intended to be limited to the preferred embodiments described in the examples, but rather to extend to the entire description and a broad general interpretation.

Claims

1. 1. A self-administered system for improving athletic performance in a subject, the system comprising: A configured illumination unit including first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units, each of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units including a portable hollow casing, the portable hollow casing having a dimensioned and sized interior spatial volume and an exterior surface configuration suitable for mounting to a skull, the portable hollow casing of each configured illumination unit comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured outer surface of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit, the light-generating unit being capable of collectively generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; It consists of: the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units are configured to emit light energy after being attached to a skull, and the emitted light energy can pass through the skull to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo; a frame adapted to support the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surfaces of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units at fixed positions on a skull in a desired illumination direction; a handheld controller assembly capable of controlling on-demand delivery of light energy from the configured illumination unit to at least a portion of the brain in-vivo, the controller assembly comprising: (a) a portable, replenishable, on-demand source of direct current; (b) a central processing unit for controlling and directing such flow of direct current; (c) at least one connector in electrical communication with a power source for delivering direct current to said central processing unit on demand; (d) at least one connector in electrical communication with the configured illumination unit for transmitting direct current from said central processing unit to said light-generating unit on demand; a controller assembly having In a system comprising: (A) the first configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a first region of the brain that includes an OZ location of the primary visual cortex; (B) the second configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a second region of the brain that includes a CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (C) the third configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a third region of the brain including a C3 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (D) the fourth configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a fourth region of the brain including a C4 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex. A system characterized by:

2. The system comprises:

1. A configured illumination lens, comprising: a portable hollow casing having fixed dimensions, a determined sized internal spatial volume, and an exterior configuration suitable for in-vivo insertion into the nasal cavity space of a nostril without substantially impairing the subject's ability to breathe and without penetrating the nasal tissue of a living subject, said portable casing of said configured illumination lens comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured exterior surface of the hollow casing of the configured illumination lens; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of the configured illumination lens, the light-generating unit being capable of generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate nasal tissue and enter the brain for a preset duration; a portable hollow casing comprising: a configured illumination lens capable of emitting light energy in a desired direction within a nasal cavity after insertion in vivo, and capable of passing the emitted light energy from the nasal cavity to at least a portion of a brain in vivo; a frame adapted to support the configured illuminated lens and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surface of the configured illuminated lens in a fixed position within a nostril adjacent an inner lining of a subject's nasal cavity in a desired illumination orientation; In a system further comprising: The portable controller assembly is further capable of controlling the delivery of light energy from the configured illumination lens on demand. The system of claim 1 .

3. The configured illumination lens is positioned to direct light energy to a fifth region of the brain selected from the group consisting of the olfactory bulb, the entorhinal cortex, and the hippocampus. The system of claim 2.

4. The configured illumination lens pulses light energy out of phase with at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth configured illumination units.

4. A system according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The wavelength of the light energy is 810 nm. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 30-50 Hz. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 70-90 Hz. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 12-15 Hz. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. 1. A self-administered method for improving athletic performance in a subject, the method comprising: A configured illumination unit including first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units, each of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units including a portable hollow casing, the portable hollow casing having a dimensioned and sized interior spatial volume and an exterior surface configuration suitable for mounting to a skull, the portable hollow casing of each configured illumination unit comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured outer surface of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of each configured illumination unit, the light-generating unit being capable of collectively generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; It consists of: the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units are configured to emit light energy after being attached to a skull, and the emitted light energy can pass through the skull to at least a portion of a brain in-vivo; a frame adapted to support the first and second configured illumination units and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surfaces of the first and second configured illumination units at fixed positions on a skull in a desired illumination direction; a handheld controller assembly capable of controlling on-demand delivery of light energy from the configured illumination lens to at least a portion of the brain in-vivo, the controller assembly comprising: (a) a portable, replenishable, on-demand source of direct current; (b) a central processing unit for controlling and directing such flow of direct current; (c) at least one connector in electrical communication with the power source for delivering direct current to the central processing unit on demand; (d) at least one connector in electrical communication with the configured illumination unit for transmitting direct current from said central processing unit to said light-generating unit on demand; a controller assembly having obtaining a light energy emitting device comprising: positioning transparent exterior surfaces of the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units in desired fixed positions adjacent the subject's skull such that light energy emitted by the first, second, third and fourth configured illumination units penetrates the skull and enters at least a portion of the subject's brain in-vivo; causing the light generating units of the configured illumination units to generate light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths on demand at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the skull and enter the brain of the subject, for a preset duration, and at a predetermined pulse frequency; A method comprising: (A) the first configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a first region of the brain that includes an OZ location of the primary visual cortex; (B) the second configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a second region of the brain that includes a CZ location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (C) the third configured illumination unit is positioned to direct light energy to a third region of the brain including a C3 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex; (D) the fourth configured illumination unit is configured to direct light energy to a fourth region of the brain including a C4 location of the primary sensorimotor cortex. A method comprising:

10. The light energy emitting device further comprises:

1. A configured illumination lens, comprising: a portable hollow casing having fixed dimensions, a determined sized interior spatial volume, and an exterior configuration suitable for in-vivo insertion into the nasal cavity space of a nostril without substantially impairing the subject's ability to breathe and without penetrating the nasal tissue of a living subject, said portable casing of said configured illumination lens comprising: (i) a light energy transparent material forming at least a portion of a configured exterior surface of the hollow casing of the configured illumination lens; (ii) at least one light-generating unit housed within the interior spatial volume of the hollow casing of the configured illumination lens, the light-generating unit being capable of generating on-demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near-infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate nasal tissue and enter the brain for a preset duration; a portable hollow casing comprising: a configured illumination lens capable of emitting light energy in a desired direction within a nasal cavity after insertion in vivo, and capable of passing the emitted light energy from the nasal cavity to at least a portion of a brain in vivo; a frame adapted to support the configured illuminated lens and adapted to freely position the light-transmitting outer surface of the configured illuminated lens in a fixed position within a nostril adjacent an inner lining of a subject's nasal cavity in a desired illumination orientation; Further comprising: The portable controller assembly can further control a delivery of light energy from the configured illumination lens on demand, comprising: The method further includes positioning a transparent outer surface of the configured illumination lens at a desired fixed position within a nostril adjacent an inner lining of a nasal cavity of a subject such that light energy emitted by the configured illumination lens penetrates nasal tissue of the subject and enters at least a portion of a brain in-vivo; causing the light generating unit of the positioned configured illumination lens to generate on demand light energy of at least one preselected wavelength selected from the group consisting of near infrared red light wavelengths and visible red wavelengths for a preset duration at a predetermined energy intensity sufficient to penetrate the nasal tissue and enter the brain of the subject.

10. The method of claim 9.

11. The configured illumination lens is positioned to direct light energy to a fifth region of the brain selected from the group consisting of the olfactory bulb, the entorhinal cortex, and the hippocampus. The method of claim 10.

12. The configured illumination lens pulses light energy out of phase with at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth configured illumination units.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11.

13. The wavelength of the light energy is 810 nm.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 30-50 Hz.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

15. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 70-90 Hz.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

16. The light energy is pulsed at a frequency of 12-15 Hz.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13.

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