27 Apr Brain Injuries and Physical Therapy
March marked the annual Brain Injury Awareness Month. As we become filled with excitement over warmer weather and the spring season, it is important to take serious precautions before heading outdoors. From sports to cars to simple falls, brain injuries can easily occur during these next few wet months (as well as any time of the year).
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) results from a bump, blow, or strike to the head causing the brain to jolt and disrupting normal brain function. The severity of TBI can range from mild (a concussion) to severe (an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss after injury). TBI can happen to anyone, and often affects adolescents involved in sports or car crashes as well as the elderly involved in falls. Many TBIs can be prevented by wearing the proper protective gear like helmets and seat belts.
Physical therapy can help to minimize or overcome paralyzing effects related to the brain. Physical Therapists can assist people suffering from the effects by helping them regain physical abilities, relearn daily tasks, and improve strength. For the more severe cases of TBI, PTs train the person to begin to walk normally again. They also assess:
- Balance
- Posture
- Strength
- Quality of Movement
- Pain Management
- Wheelchair, brace, or cane needs
Be sure to educate your parents on fall risks and remind your children to always wear helmets and seat belts. Traumatic brain injuries can’t always be avoided, but when they do happen, physical therapists are here to get the injured person back to better health. If you have any questions about physical therapy, please contact us at 662-282-4949.
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