A traumatic brain injury can be overwhelming and frightening for both the person injured and for family and friends. After the initial relief the person has survived comes the question of recovery. How long will it take and how much better will they get?
Unfortunately there are no clear answers to these questions as every brain injury is different, making it harder to predict the effects on any individual. Due to the nature of traumatic brain injury, there are frequently physical problems such as altered ability to move, balance difficulties and interference with co-ordination and sensation. It may also affect the person’s cognitive (thinking) abilities and communication. Understandably this can impact greatly on the person’s emotional status, with depression and agitation being fairly common.
The therapists at heads up! are all highly specialised and experienced in dealing with the many and varied presentations that may arise following a traumatic brain injury. This means we are able to offer high quality treatment and support both to the person injured as well as their families and/or friends. We will tailor the assessment and treatment to the individual’s abilities, and together set targets that are relevant to their life. We are able to offer community visits, which may assist people in returning to previous hobbies and to regain as much independence as their injury can allow.
Following the detailed assessment, our treatment may include:
- Stretches to tight muscle groups
- Strengthening of weak muscle groups
- Facilitation of easier ways of moving
- Balance work in a variety of positions and movements
- Re-alignment of joints in order to improve efficiency of movement
- Sensory re-education for those people with altered sensation to touch
- Work on walking
We provide specific home exercise programmes which aim to allow the person to build skills learnt in physiotherapy sessions at home. Recovery can be helped if a person is able and motivated to practise at home.
To discuss how we may be able to help you or one of your family members, please contact Sally Watt, our Practice Manager, on (01306) 888171.