We provide same-day physiotherapy appointments for healthcare workers, first responders, and seniors. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team has been delivering high-quality care since 1991. We proudly serve residents of Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, and Langley, helping individuals recover from a wide range of injuries. We are available six days a week to accommodate your needs.
What Is a Brain Injury?
A brain injury is any damage to the brain that disrupts its normal function. It can occur due to trauma, illness, or lack of oxygen, affecting physical, cognitive, and emotional functions. Brain injuries range from mild concussions to severe trauma requiring long-term care.
Brain injuries can affect anyone—children, adults, and seniors. The consequences can be short-term or lifelong, depending on the severity and promptness of treatment.
🧠Types of Brain Injury
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden blow, jolt, or penetrating injury damages the brain. TBIs are commonly caused by:
Car accidents
Falls
Sports injuries
Physical assaults
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)
An Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) results from medical conditions like:
Stroke
Brain tumors
Infections (e.g., meningitis)
Oxygen deprivation (anoxic injury)
Drug overdose
🚨 Common Causes of Brain Injuries
Motor vehicle accidents
Falls (especially in seniors and children)
Assaults or gunshot wounds
Stroke or cardiac arrest
Birth complications (in newborns)
Substance abuse or poisoning
🧩 Signs & Symptoms of Brain Injury
Brain injury symptoms vary depending on the type and severity but often include:
Physical Symptoms:
Headaches or migraines
Dizziness or loss of balance
Blurred vision
Fatigue
Seizures
Cognitive Symptoms:
Memory loss
Confusion or disorientation
Trouble focusing or multitasking
Difficulty with language or communication
Emotional & Behavioral Symptoms:
Mood swings
Depression or anxiety
Irritability or aggression
Sleep disturbances
Important: If you or someone else experiences these symptoms after a head injury, seek immediate medical attention.
đź©ş Diagnosing Brain Injuries
A proper diagnosis involves:
Neurological exams
Imaging tests like CT scans or MRI
Cognitive tests to assess mental function
Observation over time for delayed symptoms
Doctors may also refer you to a neurologist, neuropsychologist, or rehabilitation specialist for further evaluation.
⚕️ Treatment for Brain Injury
Emergency Care
Severe brain injuries require emergency intervention to reduce brain swelling, stop bleeding, and restore oxygen. This may involve:
Surgery (e.g., to remove clots or relieve pressure)
Ventilation support
Medications to manage symptoms
Rehabilitation
Rehab is critical in brain injury recovery. It may include:
1. Physiotherapy
Improves strength, balance, and mobility. Especially vital if there’s muscle weakness or coordination loss.
2. Occupational Therapy
Helps patients regain independence in daily tasks like eating, bathing, or writing.
3. Speech-Language Therapy
Supports patients with speech, communication, or swallowing difficulties.
4. Neuropsychological Therapy
Manages cognitive and emotional challenges such as memory loss, behavior change, and anxiety.
5. Cognitive Rehabilitation
Helps improve focus, planning, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
🧠Brain Injury Recovery Timeline
The recovery journey is unique for each individual. Factors affecting recovery include:
Type and severity of injury
Age and overall health
Speed of receiving treatment
Support systems (family, therapy, resources)
Some people recover in weeks; others need months or years of rehabilitation.
đź‘Ş Supporting a Loved One with Brain Injury
Caring for someone with a brain injury can be emotionally and physically demanding. Consider:
Joining a support group
Attending family therapy
Learning about the injury
Being patient and celebrating small wins
Seeking respite care when needed
Visit Brain Injury Canada or CDC’s TBI resources for support.
🏥 How Clinics Like Pitt Meadows Physiotherapy Help
Clinics like Pitt Meadows Physiotherapy offer tailored rehabilitation programs for brain injury survivors. Their experienced team—including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and neuro specialists—focuses on:
Improving motor and cognitive function
Managing pain and spasticity
Reducing fall risk
Promoting independence and confidence
Their therapists, including UBC-trained clinicians like Mr. Shubham Joshi, specialize in neurological rehab, helping patients regain function post-TBI or stroke.
đź“Ś Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
âť“ How long does brain injury recovery take?
Recovery can take weeks to years. Mild TBIs may heal in days, while severe injuries often require long-term therapy.
âť“ Can a brain injury cause permanent disability?
Yes, especially if it’s severe or left untreated. However, early intervention improves outcomes significantly.
âť“ Is it safe to return to work or school?
Only after clearance by your doctor. Return-to-work plans should include modified duties and a gradual return schedule.
âť“ Does insurance cover brain injury rehab?
Most insurance plans cover therapy for brain injuries. Check with your provider or local health authority.
âť“ Can children fully recover from a brain injury?
Children often recover better than adults, but early diagnosis and rehab are crucial to avoid developmental delays.
📲 Final Thoughts: Seek Help, Support Recovery
A brain injury is life-changing, but with the right care and support, recovery is possible. Don’t delay seeking treatment. Whether it’s a mild concussion or severe trauma, rehabilitation is key to rebuilding function, independence, and quality of life.
đź“ž Need Brain Injury Physiotherapy in BC?
Reach out to Pitt Meadows Physio today. Call (604) 465-8733 to book your consultation and start your recovery journey.
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