Each year, an estimated 1.7 million people sustain traumatic brain injuries in the United States. Traumatic brain injury is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that is severe enough to disrupt brain function. While there are many causes of traumatic brain injury, the leading cause is falls. Out of all the possible causes of sustaining a traumatic brain injury, falls make up 35 % of all cases!  These falls can occur from slipping in a bathtub, falling down the stairs, falling from a ladder and many other ways. To no surprise, the highest numbers of falls are seen in babies from when they are born to about 4 years old and adults 75 and over.  During these two stages of life, people often possess poor balance, leading to a higher risk of natural falls and not the having the strength to brace themselves.

Each case is extremely different based on which area of the brain was harmed and how severely it was harmed. Patients facing traumatic brain injury can experience symptoms that affect all different parts of their body. Below, are a few examples of how traumatic brain injury affects the body.

  • Cognitive:  inability to talk, mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, and failure to recognize common objects.
  • Behavioral: abnormal laughing or crying, aggression, impulsivity and lack of restraint.
  • Whole body: dizziness, blackouts, fainting, upset stomach, light sensitive and poor balance.
  • Mood: Anger, anxiety, and loneliness.

Much like any issue regarding the brain, traumatic brain injury can be very difficult to cope with.  A nonsurgical treatment that is known to have highly effective results for patients with traumatic brain injury is physical therapy! Physical therapists are experienced when it comes to improving one’s balance. Another key point of physical therapy is to loosen joints and strengthen muscles. After a traumatic brain injury, life is typically much less active, causing joints to tighten and muscles to weaken.  Don’t let traumatic brain injury take over your life and call Advance Physical Therapy. We are always here to improve your quality of life.