What is an Acquired Brain Injury

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is an injury/trauma caused to the brain, and there are many possible causes, including a fall, a road accident, tumour and stroke.

The effects of a brain injury can be wide ranging and depend on a number of factors such as the type, location and severity of injury.

Unlike other cells in the body, brain cells do not regenerate when damaged or destroyed, however this does not mean that no recovery can occur. The brain is, to some extent, flexible and has the ability to adapt or change over time by creating new neurons and building new networks. This is called neuroplasticity.

Neuroplasticity allows other areas of the brain take over the activities of the damaged areas and new nerve pathways can be established using undamaged brain cells. Engaging in activity helps these alternative pathways to develop. It is widely accepted that intensity of practice both in terms of repetition and duration is a key clinical driver for motor recovery activity helps these alternative pathways to develop.

Physical problems commonly present after an ABI. These may include:

• Mobility – movement can become difficult, slow and tiring, and balance may be affected.
• Spasticity – Limbs may feel weak or stiff and range of movement may be limited. Depending on the area of the brain that is injured, one side may be affected more than the other. Spasticity may cause pain or discomfort.
• Weakness – Muscles may become weaker making movement and functional tasks more difficult.
• Ataxia – Uncontrolled, irregular movements or tremors affecting co-ordination. This can cause the client difficulties when carrying out tasks such as doing buttons, eating etc.
• Sensory Impairment – The sensation of touch on the skin can be extreme (hypersensitivity), reduced or lost.
• Fatigue – Excessive tiredness that may not be reduced by rest. This can be as a result of pain, sleep disturbance and neuroendocrine disturbances.

Rehabilitation for Acquired Brain/Head Injury

Neurological Physiotherapy - Each therapy programme is specifically designed to meet the needs of each individual. These goal- based programmes may aim to target:

• Improving Range of motion
• Sensory Retraining
• Strength training
• Improving hand and arm function
• Improving functional ability like getting in and out of bed or being independent with personal care
• Improving transfers and Mobility
• Increasing independence with walking
• Fatigue management

Occupational Therapy – Occupational therapy provides support to empower people to achieve as much independence as they can, and assists with the activities of daily living, this includes:

• Personal Care
• Adaptations and equipment for home and mobility
• Support in returning to work and leisure activities.

Speech and Language therapy - to provide support, treatment and advice in communication, speech and swallowing.

Medical management – to monitor and prescribe medication for pain relief, muscle spasm, and mood.

Neuropsychologists - Psychological support for the individual, family and multi-disciplinary team in helping with emotional and behavioural challenges.