Traumatic Brain Injury Physiotherapy
Treatment
Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injuries
At Manchester Neuro Physio we understand about the potential devastating effects a
head injury / traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have on an individual and their family.
Our specialised team can help you get back as much independence as possible. The
rehabilitation process will be specific to you, depending on your future goals and the
symptoms you are experiencing.
Common effects of traumatic brain injuries are arm and leg weakness, facial weakness
and speech problems. These lead to decreased mobility, balance problems and difficulty
performing everyday tasks.
Physiotherapy treatment is very important following a traumatic brain injury. It should
commence as soon as possible and continue until an individual has reached their
maximum potential. Physiotherapy can improve an individual’s quality of life by
increasing their independence, mobility and ability to perform everyday tasks.
Manchester Neuro Physio understand that a traumatic brain injury can cause a huge
change in lifestyle for an individual and their family. We also understand that everyone
wants the maximum recovery for their loved ones.
Manchester Neuro Physio realise that traumatic brain injuries affect people in a variety of
ways and that everyone is different. As a result, we offer both home and clinic
appointments. This allows us to provide neurological physiotherapy to patients with a
huge variety of physical abilities and future goals.
Manchester Neuro Physio are experienced at working alongside solicitors, case
managers and insurers to provide a hassle free service to our clients.
What is a Traumatic Brain Injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused initially by a blow to the head. TBI also
includes potential complications seen after the initial injury caused by lack of oxygen to
the brain tissues or increased pressure within the skull.
A TBI can, therefore, be analysed as three ‘injuries’:
First injury:


This is the initial injury occurring in the seconds after the accident.
Damage is described as closed, open or crush injuries.
Second Injury:


This occurs when the oxygen supply to the brain is reduced in the minutes and
hours after the accident, worsening the damage already caused by the first injury.
This can be caused by an obstruction to an airway or serious blood loss.
Third Injury:



This occurs as a result of blood leaking from damaged blood vessels, over a
period of days or weeks, into the area causing the brain to swell.
The skull is a fixed space and the brain can suffer damage if it squeezes against it.
If the brain swells it can squeeze the blood vessels, limiting the brain's blood
circulation.
Many traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors are left with significant disability. The brain
is, however, very adaptable and, with the correct physiotherapy input, recovery can take
place over a period of years. People often witness a rapid period of recovery in the first
few weeks following a TBI, followed by a slower recovery over the following years. To
gain the maximum recovery, physiotherapy treatment should be continued immediately
once you leave hospital until your full potential has been reached.
You will be discharged from hospital when you are medically stable. Being discharged
from hospital does not mean that you will not improve further. Your rehabilitation should
continue as soon as you leave hospital. With the correct physiotherapy input and advice
you still have lots of potential to improve over the coming years.
Unfortunately, due to current constraints of the NHS, many people are not referred for
physiotherapy or are seen only for a brief period once they leave hospital.
With the correct level of physiotherapy input long term improvements can be made.
Manchester Neuro Physio commonly see individuals make significant improvements.
During your initial assessment you will discuss your short and long term rehabilitation
goals. These goals will then be at the centre of your rehabilitation.
Physiotherapy will assist you in regaining as much movement and function as possible.
Treatment often focuses on sitting balance, standing balance, walking, using your
affected arm / hand and managing any changes in muscle tone, pain or stiffness.
Neurological TBI physiotherapy can help:









improve balance and walking
increase ability to roll / move in bed / sit / stand
reduce muscle spasms, pain and stiffness
increase strength
retrain normal patterns of movement
increase affected arm and leg function
increase energy levels
increase independence and quality of life
decrease risk of falls
After a TBI many people experience difficulties performing tasks that were previously
simple. This can make everyday life a struggle for both you and those close to you.
Manchester Neuro Physio will advise you on the use of walking aids, splints, supports
and home equipment to make your life easier.
During treatment sessions our neurological physiotherapists will lead you through a
progressive programme of functional exercises to increase your mobility and muscle
control. The physiotherapists at Manchester Neuro Physio will usually teach you (and if
appropriate your family members / carers) exercises to be continued between treatment
sessions.
Manchester Neuro Physio are able to provide manual handling training sessions for
carers and families. This training involves teaching safe therapeutic handling and
positioning techniques that will promote normal movement and postural alignment to
those caring for you. The therapeutic use of specific hoists and slings can also be taught.
Where required postural, bed, seating and wheelchair assessments can be carried out by
our specialist physiotherapists. Following this assessment our physiotherapists can refer
you to appropriate NHS or private services to obtain input from other health
professionals.
Having a TBI is a life changing event. TBIs can lead to changes in personality, feelings
of frustration and reduced confidence. At Manchester Neuro Physio we aim to make our
treatment sessions effective and enjoyable. Many patients develop close relationships
with our physiotherapists. This, combined with increased function and independence,
allows our patients to lead as fulfilling lives as their potential allows.
Why Manchester Neuro Physio






Specialist neurological physiotherapists
Motivated, caring staff
Unique treatment programmes tailored to suit each individual
No waiting lists
Be seen at home or care home
Patients can be seen by more than one physiotherapist at once, if required





Dedicated, patient centred approach
Specialist falls prevention programme available
Hydrotherapy treatment available
Experienced at working with case managers, solicitors and insurers
Proven track record
Manchester Neuro Physio provides private traumatic brain injury rehabilitation
throughout Greater Manchester and Cheshire. TBI physiotherapy treatment can be
provided at home, care homes and in our physiotherapy clinic.
Manchester Neuro Physio understand the difficulties experienced following a brain injury
and the impact it has on those close to you. Our dedicated, specialised staff can maximise
your potential by working closely with you, your family and carers.
Following an initial assessment Manchester Neuro Physio will liaise with your GP,
consultant and other medical professionals. We can co-ordinate treatment and
rehabilitation and refer to other appropriate NHS or private services. When appropriate
Manchester Neuro Physio will invoice and liaise directly with you case manager,
solicitor, or insurance company. This leaves you able to concentrate on your
rehabilitation without worrying about any costs incurred.
At Manchester Neuro Physio there are no waiting lists and treatment is available until
you reach your maximum potential. Long term physiotherapy can be provided to
maintain your improvements.
Following an initial assessment Manchester Neuro Physio will liaise with your GP,
consultant and other medical professionals. We can co-ordinate treatment and
rehabilitation and refer to other appropriate NHS or private services. When appropriate
Manchester Neuro Physio will invoice and liaise direct with your solicitor, case manager,
or insurance company, leaving you to concentrate on your rehabilitation without
worrying about any costs incurred.
Manchester Neuro Physio has helped many people following a TBI and their families.
See our testimonials pages to read about the experiences of our patients.