Rehabilitation to Manage Brain Injuries
A brain injury can affect every aspect of life – how someone thinks, communicates, moves and interacts with those around them. This is because an injury can impair the brain’s ability to send signals to the rest of the body, impacting the most basic functions, like speech, swallowing, balance and mobility.
A scientific approach to treating injuries of the brain
At the University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network, we specialize in treating patients with traumatic brain injuries. Our therapists understand the science behind a patient’s impairments and develop an individualized rehabilitation program that addresses his or her unique condition and challenges. Our goal is to help brain injury patients achieve their maximum level of function and re-engage back into day-to-day life at home and in society.
In most cases, patients with brain injury maintain some level of function, so the first step in rehabilitation is to determine a patient’s abilities and challenges. Once we have a baseline, our physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech language pathologists employ different techniques for re-engaging the brain and re-establishing networks wherever possible. We work to determine opportunities for allowing function to occur. In some cases, other parts of the brain will take over a function that isn’t typical. When recovery of a function isn’t possible, our therapists help patients to work around the lack of function to find new ways to do things.
Seamless coordination with your medical team
Patients receiving rehabilitation for a brain injury have often been transitioned from an inpatient hospital setting. Their inpatient medical team and specialists in areas like neuropsychology, dietary and wound care collaborate closely with the rehabilitation team during this transition. Through the rehabilitation process, patients will work with physical, occupational and speech therapists. Our team utilizes a variety of techniques and technologies for reengaging the brain and body to improve function.
- Vital stimulation addresses throat control and helps with swallowing
- Computer applications aid with speech and cognition
- Vector Gait & Safety System supports a person’s body weight to help them practice and increase mobility
- Balance Master technology assesses balance deficit and challenges patients for improved balance
- Technology to allow people with brain and spinal cord injury to walk to improve strength and function
The UM Rehabilitation Network also offers a Brain Injury Support Group for patients and caregivers at some locations. These groups provide opportunity for individuals with similar experiences to meet on a regular basis and participate in recreational and educational activities. For patients with brain injury, it’s important to address the emotional and social challenges they will face during and after recovery. These support groups help patients form new friendships and re-engage in life.