How to Have the Best Long-Term Results
A traumatic brain injury can change your life in an instant. Though estimates are that up to 75% of all TBIs are mild, there may still be some long-term risks and consequences of even a mild traumatic brain injury. How can you maximize your chances of living as normal a life as possible after a traumatic brain injury? Here are some recommendations:
Seek Immediate Treatment and Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations
With a severe TBI, you may require hospitalization or at least a trip to the emergency room. Even if your injury seems minor, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will have the tools and resources to perform an initial examination and either establish a treatment regimen or refer you to the appropriate specialist.
Once you’ve sought care from your primary, do what your doctor prescribes. Don’t skip appointments and don’t self-diagnose that you’ve fully recovered. Let your doctor be the judge of that.
Get Everything You Can Out of the Different Types of Therapy Available
Typically, your medical caregiver will either provide or refer you to different types of therapy to help you improve your health, including:
- Physical therapy—This typically includes exercises, using weights, resistance bands and other devices, to help restore strength and stability, and improve balance and motor skills
- Speech therapy—A speech therapist can help you relearn how to verbalize, but will also assist you with cognitive rehab, including concentration, problem solving and memory issues
- Occupational therapy—This helps you rebuild daily living skills, including housekeeping, cooking and managing your personal affairs
Engage Your Brain
Though your brain isn’t technically a muscle, it’s similar in the respect that the more you use it, the healthier it tends to be. To keep your brain as nimble and healthy as possible, you need to engage its “neuroplasticity,” or ability to form new neural pathways. That’s done through repetition and through stimulation. The more you repeat necessary skills, the greater the likelihood of reestablishing those neural pathways. In addition, puzzles, art and music and other brain-focused activities can be beneficial.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.