Brain Basics: Learning to Live with a Brain Injury

The effects of brain injuries can be elusive, even to doctors. Doctors can diagnose the immediate physical effects of the injury, but even they cannot predict the long-term effects. In some cases, they don't show up for years. For more information on this issue, see http://www.tbiinfo.com.

Recovering from a brain injury is a learning process which affects not only the victim, but the family of the survivor as well. The support loved ones provide is essential to the well-being of the survivor. For years after one's injury, the family plays an important role in helping the victim cope with the change and loss. Whether it's by helping to transfer in and out of a wheelchair or coaching one to take that first step independently, the family is a vital source of love and motivation.

Patients of brain injuries typically receive physical and occupational therapy to regain the skills they lost. Patients are sometimes able to regain the ability to walk. Sometimes, they cannot. This ultimately depends on on the extent of damage to the brain. Survivors usually work with a physical therapist for months and even years to learn to walk again. In occupational therapy, patients work on regaining upper body strength. This is particularly important to those who are unable to walk, and must remain in a wheelchair. Speech therapy may also be necessary if one develops a speech impediment.

A brain injury is far from an easy experience. It requires strength, determination, and motivation to overcome. Having a brain injury means having a changed life, but it doesn't mean you have a changed spirit. A brain injury presents a challenge in the lives of so many people who have aspired, recovered, and learned to live again.

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