Traumatic Brain Injury, commonly known as TBI, affects almost 5 million Americans and their daily functions. Long-term effects of brain injuries can affect mood, balance, memory and speech. Occupational therapists, including speech and physical therapists, provide individualized programs that retrain the brain and minimize these symptoms that can adversely impact life.
Balance and Dizziness
A common lasting effect of TBI is balance disturbance, which can impair many daily functions, including walking and driving. Occupational therapy treatment programs address this balance problem, also known as vestibular disturbance, through simple exercises. These exercises and activities retrain the brain to minimize dizziness with movement; however, during the exercises the symptoms may become more severe. Dr. Carey Balaban of the University of Pittsburgh describes that treatment programs can range from one to 32 weeks, dependent upon the severity of the TBI.
Speech and Language
Word finding, difficulty expressing oneself and stuttering are potential long-term effects of a brain injury. These language problems can be independent or linked to cognitive impairment reflective of memory loss and processing difficulties. Occupational and speech therapists develop programs that assist brain-damaged patients to improve cognitive functioning through memory games, computerized programs and one-on-one articulation therapies.
Vision
Visual disturbances following TBI include blurry vision, visual field losses and pain from bright lights or glares. Problems with vision impact all aspects of life, including professional and leisure activities. If TBI has affected the occipital lobe, or the portion of the brain responsible for vision, visual-tracking abilities, or the ability to follow something smoothly with the eyes together, can result. Occupational therapy programs for TBI incorporate vision retraining using computerized programs, glasses and one-on-one therapy.
References
- Defense Veterans Brain Injury Center: Head Injury and Dizziness
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Traumatic Brain Injury, Hope Through Research
- Veterans House: Vestibular Rehabilitation After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
- Brain Injuries: About Vision Problems Associated with Brain Injuries
