Traumatic brain injury (TBI) By Jeff Shaver and Michael Tallant

What is a Traumatic brain injury and what are there complications A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms, complications and disabilities. Like – DVT’s, Ulcers or Sores, Drop Foot, Autonomic Functions, Metabolic Functions, Paralysis, Spasticity, Executive Function, Memory Problems, and Cognitive Decline are just some examples.

DVT’s and Ulcers DVT’s / Blood Clots – The lack of movement leaves the brain injured patient susceptible for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT’s) commonly called blood clots. The major concern is that these clots will travel in the body and cause a pulmonary embolism which can be fatal. It is really typical for a hospital to use prophylactic measures such as intermittent pneumatic compression boots or compression stockings to try to prevent their formation. Ulcers -- a break in the mucous membrane with loss of surface tissue, disintegration and necrosis of epithelial tissue, and often pus.

Drop Foot Drop Foot -- an extended position of the foot caused by paralysis of the flexor muscles of the leg.

Autonomic Functions and Metabolic Functions Autonomic Functions – involuntary actions due to damage to the autonomic nervous system. Metabolic Functions -- The insult to the brain can affect many of the metabolic levels in the body. The doctors will request blood work to determine the levels and make adjustments as necessary. Levels out of the normal range can cause serious if not life threatening complications.

Paralysis and Spasticity Paralysis - You are probably familiar with Quadriplegia and Paraplegia. Another form of paralysis that is common with brain injury victims is Hemipelegia which is paralysis to one side of the body. Spasticity - Spasticity is a condition in which certain muscles are continuously contracted. This contraction causes stiffness or tightness of the muscles and may interfere with movement, speech, and manner of walking. Spasticity is usually caused by damage to the portion of the brain or spinal cord that controls voluntary movement. Treatment may include stretching, medications, and in some cases surgery.

Executive Function Executive Function -- There may also be problems with higher level, so- called executive functions, such as planning, organizing, abstract reasoning, problem solving, and making judgments, which may make it difficult to resume work or school related activities.

Memory problems and Cognitive Decline Memory problems – As you can guess this is just loss of memory or problems recalling or retain information due to a Traumatic Brain Injury. Cognitive Decline – a Loss in the brain skills like recollection or memorization.

Rehab and Treatment Rehab and Treatment are not going to be done by a trainer only in a hospital or PT facility.

Problems With Athletes Athletes many times want to go back to their sports before they are ready and this can cause more injuries and even death. So medical teams have made things such as imPACT to try to stop this. Many times tough the athlete will never return due to injury severity.

Works Cited