How is traumatic brain injury treated?
The cognitive and communication problems of traumatic brain injury are best treated early, often beginning while the individual is still in the hospital. This early therapy will frequently center on increasing skills of alertness and attention, and focus on improving orientation to person, place, time, and situation. Long-term rehabilitation can be performed individually, in groups, or both, depending upon the needs of the individual. This therapy occurs in a rehab facility designed specifically for the treatment of individuals with traumatic brain injury. This type of setting allows for intensive therapy by speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and neuropsychologists. Other courses of action may include therapy at home by visiting therapists or on an outpatient basis at a hospital, medical center, or rehabilitation facility.
