Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury can occur as a consequence of a focal impact upon the head, by a sudden acceleration/deceleration within the cranium or by a complex combination of both movement and sudden impact. In addition to the damage caused at the moment of injury, brain trauma causes secondary injury, which encompass a variety of events that take place in the minutes and days following the initial injury. These processes, which include alterations in cerebral blood flow and the pressure within the skull, contribute substantially to the damage from the initial injury.

Movement disorders that may develop after Traumatic Brian Injury include spasticity (increased muscle tone), ataxia (uncoordinated muscle movements), myoclonus (involuntary contractions of muscles), and loss of movement range and control.

Our practise will assess the needs of the brain injured patient and together with their carer, identify goals of treatment to improve selective movement in all areas of the body that have been affected, including areas affected by the brain injury and compensatory activity interfering with return of function. All aspects of mobility, including bed mobility, transfers, balance and postural control, and walking, will be addressed in treatment.