What is Traumatic Brain Injury?
According to the Brain Injury Association of America, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is defined as an alteration in brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology, caused by an external force. Traumatic impact injuries can be defined as closed (or non-penetrating) or open (penetrating). Examples of a TBI include:
- falls
- assaults
- motor vehicle accidents
- sports injuries
According to the CDC, the leading cause of traumatic injury is falls, particularly for young children and adults over 65.
Symptoms that may occur after TBI may include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Convulsions
- Loss of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Poor concentration
- Memory problems
- Personality changes
After a traumatic brain injury, rehabilitation is an important part of recovery. It can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as psychiatric care and social support.
Johns Hopkins Medicine has a comprehensive rehabilitation center for traumatic brain injury.
How rehabilitation helps:
- Improve your ability to function at home and in your community
- Help treat the mental and physical problems caused by TBI
- Provide social and emotional support
- Help you adapt to changes as they occur during your recovery
Rehab can also help prevent complications of TBI such as:
- Blood clots
- Pain
- Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores
- Breathing problems and pneumonia
- A drop in blood pressure when you move around
- Muscle weakness and muscle spasm
- Bowel and bladder problems
- Reproductive and sexual function problems
What are the risks of rehab after traumatic brain injury?
Rehab after a TBI is not likely to cause problems. But there is always a risk that parts of treatment such as physical or occupational therapy might lead to new injuries or make existing symptoms or injuries worse if not done properly.