Balance concerns can challenge both the patient and caregivers after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Over half of TBI patients experience some level of dizziness or balance concerns. 

Some patients feel like they might faint, that their surroundings are moving even though they are standing still, or feel light-headed. 

Many factors determine the severity of balance problems, including injury severity, part of the brain-damaged, or medications. Other patients, such as those injured in a car accident, may have balance issues due to other injuries the body has sustained. 

What is the Importance of Balance for TBI Patients?

The most significant reason balance is concerning for TBI patients is because of the risk of falls. Older patients may already have difficulties with balance, even without a TBI. Add in a brain injury, and their risk of falls significantly increases. 

Falls are concerning because they can cause injuries that may delay recovery and rehabilitation. Some patients even have a second TBI resulting in second impact syndrome. 

Why is second impact syndrome a concern? It can result in cerebral swelling, brain herniation, and even death. 

Also, balance is essential for a patient to be able to participate in daily life. Balance can affect sitting, standing, walking, and self-care. Some patients have challenges with bathing, using the toilet, and the ability to dress. 

How Do Providers Diagnose Balance Problems?

Professionals at post-acute rehabilitation centers are specialists in diagnosing balance concerns after a TBI. Doctors who focus on the nervous system and the brain can usually quickly identify the issue to develop a treatment plan as soon as possible to reduce the risk of falls. 

A team approach is the best approach! Physical therapists are key for identifying and rehabilitating patients who have had a TBI. 

Occupational therapists also use balance tests to specify the severity of balance issues and provide interventions to reduce the risk of falls. Other staff are educated on patients' individual needs regarding balance issues so they may safely help patients who are in recovery. 

What Can Treatment Providers do to Help Patients with Balance Problems?

The treatment team can use several interventions to help patients with balance problems, including: 

• Determine their balance limits. Safely working with a therapist can teach movements to help with transitioning positions, such as sitting to standing.
• Sit at a level that is safe, not too high, or too low.
• Therapy can help to teach patients how to safely stand, reach objects at a high level correctly, or pick something down on the floor if dropped.
• Patients can work with a physical therapist on strength and flexibility in their lower body. Improved strength decreases the risk of falls. 
• Practice standing and walking in a safe environment. One exercise includes practicing standing with your eyes closed, so you decrease dependence on vision. Patients practice bringing feet together and apart or practice standing on one leg with the help of a therapist. 
• Walking in a safe environment can also be beneficial. Patients can build up the length of time they walk and distance as they improve. 

It is important to remember every patient is different. Some have relief of balance problems soon after starting a program, while it can take months or even years for others. 

Continuing to work on a program is important for both short-term and long-term recovery. We cannot stress enough how important it is to have patience while your loved one is working to rebuild and restore balance problems. 

Finding the Best Help for Inpatient Neuro Rehab Near Me

Neulife specializes in the treatment of TBI patients and the many symptoms they experience. Through a safe and specialized approach, they can help patients with their symptoms, such as balance. 

The program at Neulife focuses on the needs of every patient and their family. Our rehabilitation for brain injury includes clinical evaluations, medical care, and therapeutic activities, all customized to meet each patient's goals, needs, and abilities. 

Every component of the treatment plan is customized to the individual patient for guaranteed results so patients can transition home safely.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a tour around our modern, beautifully situated on 43 acres in Mount Dora, Florida, patient-friendly facility, please do contact us – we are looking forward to seeing you!

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.