A traumatic brain injury can affect a person’s life in detrimental ways including their ability to communicate, reason and maintain independence. Recovering from a TBI takes time regardless of the severity of the injury.
TBIs require customized treatment plans to address a person’s injury in relation to their lifestyle and the degree to which they will realistically recover.
Customization: a strategy for healing
Because brain injuries range so significantly in terms of severity and type, a one-size-fits-all approach to treating them is simply unrealistic. According to Psychology Today, overspecialization can slow and even damage a victim’s progress by ignoring other critical portions of remedial treatment.
When TBI victims work with a case manager who coordinates treatment types, they can optimize their chances of recovery. Health care professionals who realize the integral role of a well-rounded treatment plan will recognize the need to modify the plan as their patients’ progress. In many cases of TBI, victims require ongoing medical treatment to help them manage their injury and live a productive life.
Types of treatment
The breadth of treatment for a TBI stretches from cognitive therapies to intricate brain surgeries to alleviate swelling and improve brain function. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health lists some of the emergency and rehabilitation treatments including the following:
- Repairing skull fractures
- Occupational therapy
- Vocational counseling
- Removing blood clots
- Physical therapy
Psychological counseling can also help people address the trauma of their accident and learn how to manage triggers. This support can help them to gain confidence and reduce the chances of debilitating anxiety and depression stemming from their accident.