The Insurance Commission of WA has awarded grants to two neurotrauma projects as part of its commitment to support studies that improve injury rehabilitation.

Both projects are based at the Sarich Neuroscience Research Institute. The first will seek an early identification method for urinary tract infections in people with spinal cord injuries.

The second assesses the effects of magnetic stimulation on brain plasticity following a spinal cord injury, to improve forelimb function.

It is the second year the commission has provided research grants as part of a three-year partnership with the Neurotrauma Research Program at the Perron Institute.

“The funding we provide to the Neurotrauma Research Program is a proactive initiative to improve the lives of people injured on the road and manage claims costs,” Commission Secretary Kane Blackman said.

“Car crash injuries cost the [commission] hundreds of millions of dollars each year.”