Head injuries vary in severity ranging from a mild concussion to a severe traumatic brain injury. Cognitive impairment may have lasting effects, but because of the brain's elasticity, new neuronal pathways can continue to be made throughout the lifespan. Orthopedic exercises help these pathways to form and help speed recovery physiologically, neuronally and emotionally.
Vestibular Considerations
The orthopedic use of stationary bikes allows people with head injuries to utilize left and right brain connections without relying on personal balance. Balance can be severely affected after you head trauma due to damage to the vestibular system. Activities that do not require excessive balance can improve cognitive function and awareness as well offering substantial retraining to muscular physiology.
Range of Motion
Orthopedic exercises that enhance range of motion can offer a person recovering from head injury a broad range of benefits. Improved flexibility, muscle tone and coordination are all improved with range of motion exercises. Slow paced stretching such as that found in yoga and Pilates will challenge balance and should be attempted in an area free from sharp corners. Start with simple postures until your mastery allows more involved postures.
Physical Considerations
Many people with head injuries must deal with memory issues in addition to having to teach the brain how to access the control center to muscular regions of the body. Slow walking with a companion is one of the best orthopedic exercises a head injured person may enjoy. It is vital to walk with a companion to ensure that you do not get lost, which can cause debilitating stress and future resistance to this healthful activity. As brain tissue heals, it may be helpful for a head injured person to write down information on his walks so that he may chart his memory improvement to increase a positive attitude and compliance for further physical therapy.
Suggestions
Head injuries often have lasting effects on the brain. Though healing will take place, it is important to recognize signs of impairment so that you are not over stressed with tasks that prove frustrating. Many people who have sustained a traumatic brain injury may benefit from the use of a service dog. Service dogs offer companionship, may help with simple or complicated tasks, and will increase compliance for taking walks, which is vital for orthopedic healing.
References
- "Traumatic brain injury: rehabilitative treatment and case management"; Mark J. Ashley; 2003
- "The American Physical Therapy Association Book of Body Maintenance and Repair"; Steve Vickery and Marilyn Moffat; 2004
- "Behavioral Neurology and Neuropsychology"; Todd Feinburg and Martha Farah; 2003
