Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury refers to a closed or open head injury following trauma, resulting in significant neurological symptoms that may include loss of memory and cognitive function, behavioural changes and physical immobility.

Traumatic brain injury can range from being towards the milder spectrum, such as a concussion, to more severe forms where the person can end up in a coma and minimally responsive.

Traumatic brain injury can range from being towards the milder spectrum, such as a concussion, to more severe forms where the person can end up in a coma and minimally responsive.

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Common challenges:

  • Difficulty with concentration and memory

  • Difficulty with sitting or standing balance

  • Paralysis and weakness of muscles

  • Inability to use the arm functionally

  • Loss of the ability to stand or walk

  • Spasticity and disorders in muscle tone

  • Pain

  • Sensory disturbances

  • Postural deformities

  • Altered midline perception

  • Behavioural and personality changes

  • Loss of speech and comprehension

The role of a neurological physiotherapist in traumatic brain injury:

Neurological physiotherapists are physiotherapists with additional training and expertise in treating problems related to the brain, spinal cord, inner ear and nerves. Neurological physiotherapists apply their neuroscience knowledge to predict the likelihood of recovery given the type of brain injury and the distribution of symptoms. We understand how muscle tone and the different neurological systems interact to maximise recovery.

Traumatic brain injury is likely to produce disorders of muscle tone and control of movement, where there may be increased resistance to stretch (spasticity) or a heightened reflex response (hyperreflexia) that can make walking and running more difficult. This can be treated with neurological physiotherapy, by strengthening the right muscle groups and restoring normal balance reactions when the person is upright against gravity. Furthermore, our neurological physiotherapists experienced in traumatic brain injury physio apply the principles of sensory feedback and postural adjustments to help individuals with traumatic brain injury control their tone and regain as much motor control as possible. This may be in the form of intensive therapy.

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What our skilled therapists can offer with brain injury physiotherapy:

  • Thoroughly assess your neurological systems to determine potential for recovery

  • Review and prescribe wheelchairs, seating and any other equipment you may need

  • Design a personalised neurological rehabilitation program that is holistic and considers the 24-hour routine

  • Provide hands-on treatment to teach the individual how to move better or more efficiently

  • Provide advice on facilitating skill development and transfer into the individual’s daily life and education to caregivers

  • Liaise with the other health professionals or funding bodies as required to assist in your rehabilitation or health and well-being

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Frequently Asked Questions

Traumatic brain injury is a form of acquired brain injury that occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. It can result from a blow or jolt to the head or when an object penetrates the skull and enters brain tissue.
The most frequent causes of traumatic brain injury include falls, vehicle-related collisions, sports injuries, and violent assaults. Military personnel are also at risk due to combat-related activities.
Symptoms of traumatic brain injury can range from mild alterations in mental status or consciousness to profound coma and amnesia. Common symptoms include headaches, confusion, dizziness, blurred vision, and changes in cognitive or emotional functioning.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and neuroimaging techniques such as CT scans or MRI to assess the extent and location of the injury.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and may involve medication for symptoms, emergency surgery to prevent further brain damage, and long-term rehabilitation therapies to enhance recovery of cognitive and motor functions.
Yes, individuals with traumatic brain injury can experience lasting effects that may include physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, emotional and behavioral changes, and an increased risk of developing neurological disorders.
Recovery varies widely among individuals and may involve rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and psychological support.
Preventative strategies include wearing appropriate safety gear during sports and recreational activities, securing homes to prevent falls, using seat belts, and ensuring safe driving practices.
Families and caregivers may need to make significant adjustments to support a loved one with traumatic brain injury. This can include managing rehabilitation schedules, making home modifications, and seeking emotional support for themselves.
Research on traumatic brain injury is focusing on improving diagnostic tools, developing more effective treatments, and understanding the long-term impacts of brain injuries. Studies on neuroplasticity and the brain’s ability to adapt and recover are particularly promising.
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