Traumatic brain injury usually results from a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. An object that penetrates brain tissue can cause traumatic brain injury. Mild traumatic brain injury may affect brain cells temporarily. More serious traumatic brain injury can result in bruising, torn tissues, bleeding and other physical damage to the brain. These injuries can result in long-term complications.
Physiotherapy for TBI patients requires low load prolonged stretches to prevent contracture. Positioning to stretch hip, knee and elbow flexors, hip and shoulder adductors, forearm pronators, and thumb webspace. Standing on a tilt table for up to an hour a day helps to gain weight-bearing. Encourage active and assisted movements within the pain-free range. Upper extremities strength exercises for balance and equilibrium to help improve coordination will be included as part of rehabilitation.
Prevention is better than cure. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of brain injury:
~ Seat belts and airbags - Always wear a seat belt while in driving.The following tips can help children avoid head injuries:
~ Install safety gates at the top of a stairway.