Marine Corps Take Steps to Treat Battlefield Brain Injuries

The plight of U.S. soldiers who suffer concussions and other brain injuries on the battlefield is beginning to gain more traction in the public consciousness. Still, military leaders have a long way to go before they can say that the problem has truly been addressed.

However, steps are underway in some areas to provide injured soldiers with the resources and care needed to recover from injuries such as concussions.

Often the result of landmines and hand-fired rockets, one of the biggest challenges faced by army units in the field is getting the appropriate care to the front. At Camp Leatherneck, the Marine Corps have attempted to do just that with the Concussion Restoration Care Center.

The “center” treats up to 30 troops a week, employing a number of medical personnel and specialists who provide care and ensure that the soldiers being treated appropriately and are progressing in a positive direction.

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, soldiers who check in to the center are often able to return to active duty in a matter of weeks – often without the sort of negative effects usually associated with head injuries.

For many soldiers, however, that treatment did not come soon enough. Many have already returned home, only to experience the symptoms of an injury that has yet to be diagnosed. Treating these soldiers and working to rehabilitate them will be a major issue for both the armed forces and healthcare providers.

Source Article

• Marines put new focus on treating brain injuries (Sign On San Diego)