Randomized Controlled Trial of Treatment to Optimize Heart Rate Variability for Persistent Post-Concussion Symptoms

This study, a randomized, controlled trial (RCT) of an easily implemented, mechanism-driven, behavioral intervention using HRV biofeedback (HRV-B) to treat PPCS among adults, including c-Vs and SMs, with history of single or repeated mTBI from blast-related or other mechanism. Specifically, we study an intervention for persons with PPCS that promotes sustained functional recovery during the chronic phase of injury, which addresses psychological health and cognitive functioning, and has the potential to address neurodegenerative processes associated with TBI and treat co-occurring TBI and psychological health conditions. Importantly, the intervention is non-invasive, rapidly deployable, and is based on the pathophysiology and a theoretical mechanism of PPCS. Secondarily, this project also has the potential as a more generalized solution to increase readiness and psychological resilience in individuals, small teams, families, and communities to ameliorate the potential negative impacts of specific military and life stressors.