Physiotherapy in Napa County, CA Helps with Brain Injuries

The results of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) vary from vertigo to completely losing control of the limbs. It all depends on the extent of the injury, and every TBI is as different as the individuals who sustain them. Physiotherapy in Napa County, CA proves helpful to people suffering these conditions, and we assist many TBI patients. Our routines can restore movement and facilitate at least some independence. Here is how physiotherapy helps TBI patients:

• Addresses multiple body symptoms: A TBI affects neurological function and physical ability. Even a slight case of vertigo, which may not stop a patient from driving or functioning at their sedentary job, still interferes by creating morning dizzy spells and difficulty balancing on ladders or even stairs. Physiotherapy pays attention to both the neurological and physical components. For example, a vertigo patient will practice balancing exercises while also addressing the misfires between brain and body. That approach makes physiotherapy very effective.
• Monitoring: TBI is difficult to treat because symptoms are diverse and varied. Also, a patient may improve—or become worse—for no obvious reason. The latter circumstances may require further examination. A physical therapist is a vital team member who can notice changes, including alarming ones that need to be addressed immediately. Caregivers may not notice changes because of burnout, or because the symptoms are subtle, but treatment providers who see patients on an appointment basis will immediately notice improvements or decline.
• Vocational training: Physiotherapy assists with independence. Sometimes, this includes teaching a patient to use a wheelchair well so they can maneuver onto public transportation or pull into their desk. If a stroke or TBI removes functioning from one side of the body, teaching patients how to use a one-handed keyboard or screen magnifiers so they can still work is also essential. Helping patients maintain some independence makes a huge difference in their life outlook. Physiotherapists observe limitations, but can also emphasize a patient’s current abilities.
• Maintain muscle tone: If a TBI patient remains immobilized from their injuries, they may face muscle atrophy and joint immobilization. Even if the chance of regaining full mobility is low, maintaining integrity of physical symptoms remains important. Positioning strategies are common so patients do not suffer contractures or other skeletal difficulties from being in a wheelchair or in bed most of the time. Soft tissue and motion exercises early on after the brain injury increases even slim chances of recovery and prevents physical decline.
• Movement training: Neurodevelopmental treatment helps the brain coordinate with physical movement better. It emphasizes postural control, functional activities and adapting to difficulties. Compensatory training helps patients adapt to limited functioning by learning to focus on systems that are functional. A focus of this training is preventing falls, since that can lead to additional brain injuries and further physical challenges. For mobile patients, this includes balance work in a safe and supervised environment.

Focus Forward Wellness & Physical Therapy offers physiotherapy in Napa County, CA for neurological dysfunction, including treatment for traumatic brain injuries. Get in touch today to arrange an appointment!

Categorised in: Physiotherapy

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