Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Rehabilitation
TBI ranges from concussion to more severe brain injury and can affect cognition, mood, sleep, balance, vision, and physical function. Symptoms may linger and can disrupt school, work, and daily life.
Our PM&R team evaluates the full symptom pattern and builds a rehab plan that supports both brain recovery and functional return.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Symptoms may include:
- Headache, dizziness, balance issues
- Sensitivity to light/noise
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Brain fog, attention or memory issues
- Mood changes (irritability, anxiety, depression)
- Neck pain or vision-related symptoms
Your evaluation includes neurologic screening, balance and vestibular assessment when relevant, and a review of sleep, mood, and function.
Diagnosis
TBI is typically diagnosed clinically; imaging may be done initially to rule out bleeding or structural injury. Rehab-focused evaluation may include:
- Cognitive/functional screening tools
- Vestibular/vision screening and referral when indicated
Treatment
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is most often diagnosed based on clinical history and symptom presentation. Imaging may be performed early to rule out bleeding or structural injury, particularly after moderate or severe trauma. A rehabilitation-focused evaluation may also include:
- Graded return-to-activity planning, addressing both physical exertion and cognitive demands
- Physical therapy, including balance and vestibular rehabilitation, and cervical/neck rehabilitation when needed
- Symptom-targeted medication strategies for issues such as sleep disturbance, headaches, or mood changes
- Care coordination with neuropsychology, neurology, or behavioral health for patients with persistent or complex symptoms
Ongoing Management & Long-Term Care
Recovery from TBI often continues over weeks to months and benefits from structured follow-up and monitoring. Long-term management typically focuses on:
- Stepwise progression back to work or school, with accommodations as needed
- Ongoing monitoring for prolonged or evolving symptoms, with adjustment of therapy intensity and supports over time
- Prevention counseling to reduce the risk of repeat head injury and support long-term brain health