Traumatic Brain Injury Therapies: Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, occur when the brain is moved or rattled in the skull due to a blow or jolt to the head. In the United States alone, between 1.7 to 3 million people experience a concussion every year.
As serious as this injury can be, there is hope. TBI treatments have come a long way. There are a variety of traumatic brain injury therapies available to help.
Explore this article to learn more!
Cognitive Rehabilitation
Cognitive rehabilitation is an important treatment option for individuals with a TBI. This form of rehabilitative therapy can improve cognition, communication, problem-solving, and organization. It can also help individuals boost their attention span to prepare for individual and career-oriented goals.
During treatment, individuals have the opportunity to tap into specialized therapies. This includes cognitive retraining, computer-assisted therapies, and mental exercises. All these help improve mental functions.
Physical Rehabilitation (Traumatic Brain Injury)
Physical therapy helps TBI patients increase their mobility and recover balance and coordination. It also helps them strengthen weakened muscles after a brain injury.
Through this treatment, a patient may learn to walk again or regain the use of an impaired limb.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy improves the mental and physical effects of TBI. It helps patients return to their previous situation as much as possible.
This form of treatment helps individuals adjust to a new normal. It teaches them how to perform daily tasks. It works to build strength, coordination, problem-solving, decision-making, and spatial awareness.
This treatment for TBI may also help individuals learn strategies to help cope with cognitive and emotional changes. It helps individuals return to their daily routines.
Speech Therapy
Speech therapists address a wide range of issues challenging individuals with TBI. This includes the ability to understand verbal, non-verbal, and written concepts. The therapy also covers the expression of ideas in written or verbal form.
Speech therapy for TBI also included working on fluency, articulation, reading, and writing. Many individuals with TBI can develop more efficient ways of communicating. They learn to better interact with family, friends, and co-workers.
Psychological Counseling
Psychological counseling can be an important aspect of therapy and treatment for TBI. By talking with a mental health professional, patients can help to process their feelings and experiences.
Patients can deal with possible arising issues like post concussive syndromes. And they can learn positive coping strategies and come to terms with how the injury has affected their lives. They can develop a stronger sense of self-worth.
Anxiety and depression are also common among TBI patients. Psychological counseling can help reduce symptoms and increase an individual’s quality of life.
If needed, counseling may also include family members and/or other involved support persons. This is to ensure functional and supportive relationships are in place.
Traumatic Brain Injury Therapies Improve People’s Lives
The outlook for a person with a TBI remains uncertain. Traumatic brain injury therapies should involve multiple approaches based on a patient’s needs.
Don’t lose hope. TBI is a treatable condition. Proper therapies, treatment, and rehabilitation help improve the quality of life.
Engaging in personalized, evidence-based treatments can help those affected by TBI lead a better life. If you or a loved one was affected by a TBI, contact a healthcare professional for advice.
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