A tumor, concussion, or another traumatic brain injury (TBI) can affect your life in many ways. Fortunately, medical advancements like physical therapy or physiotherapy can help the brain heal naturally and restore its previous function level and your overall wellness. Brain injury rehab is part of most TBI patients’ treatment due to the therapy’s positive interventions.
At JPM Physical Therapy, our specialists offer physical therapy for TBI in Queens, NY. We know the importance and benefits of personalized rehabilitation after brain injuries, which we explain below.
Understand Common Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are more common than you might think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2020 alone, there were more than 214,000 reported traumatic brain injuries. Unfortunately, that number doesn’t include the many people who don’t report them or seek help at emergency departments and urgent care centers.
TBI examples include:
- Brian infections
- Stroke
- Closed head injuries, like concussions
- Penetrating head injuries
- Anoxia
- Aneurysm
Signs and Symptoms of a TBI
Injury symptoms can vary since the brain controls the ability to think, speak, and move. You could experience one or more of the following:
- Physical limitations, like difficulty standing or moving your limbs
- Cognitive issues, like the inability to solve problems or memory loss
- Sensory impairments affecting sight, hearing, or sense of touch
- Behavioral or emotional problems, which may include a change in personality or agitation
What Is Rehabilitation After a Brain Injury?
Brain injury rehab helps patients overcome the symptoms of TBI by using repetition and targeted exercises at varying intensities to enhance neuroplasticity. In other words, physical therapy helps TBI patients rewire their brains and bridge lost connections with nerve cells.
Neuroplasticity physical therapy involves an in-depth assessment and treatment plan to help those with TBIs and their caregivers achieve the most favorable outcomes. It contributes to their ability to enjoy life, participate in social interactions, and manage their psychological, physical, and cognitive functions.
This treatment is crucial for recovery. Depending on your needs, you may need rehabilitation as well as psychiatric care and support from your loved ones. Personalized treatments combine what’s necessary to address common TBI impairments and secondary complications, such as:
- Loss of balance
- Cognitive or mobility impairment
- Spasticity
- Pain
- Muscle weakness
- Blood clots
- Pressure-related injuries
- Heart and lung dysfunction
Everything from a car accident to a slip and fall could trigger a TBI. Although brain injury rehab can be beneficial, not all people and injuries are identical. Therapists must tailor their treatments according to each patient, their specific brain injury, and the severity of their condition.
How Physical Therapy Helps With Brain Injury Recovery
Physical therapy can improve motor function, enhance balance, restore mobility, and boost cognitive functions. Therapists create treatment plans according to a patient’s limitations.
For instance, a person in a vegetative state will get help with positioning and movement from the therapist to reduce the likelihood of pressure wounds. Meanwhile, someone who is conscious or minimally conscious may need different kinds of support using equipment, stretching, and positioning themselves.
The therapist’s goal is to work with the patient to initiate consistent responses for communication and movement. As the patient improves, their therapy may incorporate other assistive devices, patient and family education, exercise regimens, and task-specific training.
So, who needs brain injury rehabilitation? Many people can benefit from outpatient physiotherapy if they experience problems with balance, mobility, and strength following an injury. Yet, the CDC reports that less than 10% of people with severe TBI require inpatient rehabilitation.
Anybody with a traumatic brain injury should start physical therapy as soon as possible for the best outcomes. A 2022 article from the American Physical Therapy Association suggests that starting therapy later can increase hospital and ICU stays and 76% lower odds of being sent home without complications.
Does Physical Therapy TBI Recovery Come With Any Risks?
Although the risks of complications during rehabilitation are minimal, problems can still arise. For example, a fall could occur during gait or balance training, resulting in a secondary injury.
That’s why it’s important to rely on skilled, well-trained professionals for a comprehensive physiotherapy treatment plan. Your specialist will work with you closely, ensuring they take all the necessary precautions to keep you safe and promote a positive, engaging environment with as few risks as possible. If you have any concerns about your treatment or potential complications, don’t hesitate to speak with your physical therapist about them.
Start the Journey Toward Brain Injury Recovery in Queens With JPM Physical Therapy
Brain injury rehab doesn’t have to be a frightening or overwhelming experience. At JPM Physical Therapy in Queens, NY, we provide compassionate care for those recovering from serious injuries. Our holistic approach to healing and recovery includes everything from chiropractic care to balance rehab for brain injuries.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available, so call JPM Physical Therapy today at (516) 689-9921.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traumatic Brain Injuries and Physical Therapy
Uncover more information about TBIs and rehabilitation by reading our responses to common questions.
What Should I Avoid If I Sustain a Traumatic Brain Injury?
If you have a head injury, you should avoid doing anything that could worsen your condition or trigger another injury. That includes playing contact sports or following a rigorous exercise regimen.
Will Rehab Enhance Balance Following a TBI?
Rehabilitation can help improve your balance if you injure your brain. A multifaceted approach, including targeted exercises, environment adaptability, and vestibular rehabilitation, is best for accomplishing this goal.
How Can Physiotherapy Improve Mobility and Strength in Somebody With a TBI?
Physiotherapy combines targeted exercises that help bridge the connections between nerve cells to improve mobility, strength, coordination, balance, and the ability to walk. Resistance training and aerobic conditioning are examples of brain injury rehab treatments.
What Are the Top Goals for TBI Patients Who Are Undergoing Physical Therapy?
Typical physical therapy goals for people with TBI include fall prevention, improved range of motion, and enhanced strength, endurance, and balance. Some patients may also need help using supportive devices or controlling their posture.
