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Brain
injuries
A
brain or spinal cord injury can damage or bruise sensitive tissues.
These injuries may result from car or motorcycle accidents, serious
falls, acts of violence or sports activities, such as diving.
The
effects of these injuries vary depending on the severity, site and
cause of the injury. They may be temporary or permanent.
When
an injury to the brain or spinal cord causes permanent damage, rehabilitation
can help restore independence, improve quality of life and minimize
disability.
Rehabilitation
goals may include:
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Increasing strength, easing stiffness or improving coordination
in a limb or limbs.
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Improving ability to move independently. This could mean learning
how to use a wheelchair, improving balance or increasing strength
and endurance.
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Setting up a home physical activity program.
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Educating families and caretakers about how to encourage and help
care for the injured person.
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Improving awareness of paralyzed limbs to help prevent injury.
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Relearning how to swallow or speak.
The
overall goal of therapy is always to help the injured person regain
as much independence and quality of life as possible.
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