Traumatic Brain Injury Physical Therapy Charleston, SC
The consequences of traumatic brain injury can range from a temporary headache to severe complications, such as cognitive impairment and even death. Almost three million cases of traumatic brain injury are diagnosed in the United States each year, and these cause more than sixty thousand deaths. While most cases are concussions that resolve without therapy, many cases cause symptoms that affect normal daily activities. The physical therapists at Coastal Movement Specialists are committed to our client's recovery and return to a fulfilling and active lifestyle. Learn more below and contact us today to schedule an appointment in our Johns Island, SC office.
+ What Is Traumatic Brain Injury?
Trauma that damages the brain and how it functions causes traumatic brain injury (TBI). A traumatic event happens when the head quickly and forcefully hits an object, or when an object hits the skull penetrates the brain. Moderate or severe TBI requires specialized care and rehabilitation, like physical or occupational therapy, to help with the possible short and long-term effects.
+ Signs and Symptoms
Since the brain’s functions include so much of our movement, cognition, and ability to conduct daily tasks, a brain injury can result in various symptoms, such as:
• Physical symptoms including headaches, dizziness, nausea
• Mental symptoms such as problems with memory, concentration, and problem-solving
• Changes in vision, hearing, balance, taste, and smell
• Communication impairments such as slurred speech and difficulty constructing sentences
• Emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and mood changes
+ Causes
There are many causes of TBI, including:
• Falls
• Gunshot wounds
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports
• Explosive blasts
• Domestic violence
• Suicide attempts
+ What Are the Risk Factors For TBI?
Several factors can increase your risk of TBI, including:
• Age. Young children under 5, young people between 15 and 24, and adults over 75 are at increased risk
• Contact sports. Participating in sports such as football or soccer increase one’s risk of head injuries
• Alcohol. Alcohol use is associated with about one-half of all brain injuries
• Abuse. Adults and children in abusive homes are at increased risk of TBI
• Gender. More than seventy-five percent of brain injuries occur in men
+ What Are The Complications?
The complications vary considerably depending on the severity of the brain injury. Some physical complications can include seizures, fluid accumulation in the brain, brain infections, stroke, blood clots, dizziness, and headaches. When a TBI causes cranial nerve damage, complications can include facial muscles paralysis, loss of taste and smell, vision difficulties, and problems swallowing.
+ How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical and occupational therapy offers many benefits to those with a TBI, including:
• Improved balance
• Enhanced muscular strength, flexibility, and mobility
• More energy
• Better movement
• Improvement in mood and less emotional distress
• A return to normal activities
Schedule an Appointment
Located on Johns Island, SC, Coastal Movement Specialists serves the entire Charleston area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced physical or occupational therapists.