Researchers found that mechanically compressing the shin bone of mice and pigs with traumatic brain injuries led to improvements in cognitive and motor symptoms. The effect is attributed to molecules released by the bone during compression, which appear to ease the impact of the injury.
The study adds to a growing view of bone as more than just structural support. Rather than acting directly on the brain, the compression seems to trigger a release of substances that travel through the body and support recovery. The exact identity of these molecules and how they act remains unclear from the report.
Because the experiments were done in animals, it is too early to say whether the approach would work in humans. Still, the results point toward a potential non-invasive strategy for helping people recover from traumatic brain injuries, if further research confirms the mechanism and safety.