Brain Injuries
Even with increased awareness of safety measures such as
seatbelts, use of air bags, and more stringent drunk driving laws, PM&R
physicians are involved in about two million new traumatic brain injury (TBI)
cases each year. Males aged 15–24 have the highest incidence of TBI, the
vast majority being concussions and brain injury.
Since no two patients have the same set of impairments,
the physiatrist has to address each patient’s specific issues, which can
include cognitive, behavioral, and psychosocial consequences of the injury.
Studies and experience show that early and ongoing involvement by a
physiatrist decreases short-term complications and optimizes long term
functional outcome and quality of life.
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