Brain Injury (TBI) & Memory Problems
Post Concussive Syndrome (PCS), also known as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or head injury, is the result of physiological disruption of normal brain function, such as trauma from either external (an object striking the head or the head striking an object,or biochemical means- chemical/heavy metal poisoning, infection) or internal events (the rapid acceleration/deceleration of the brain within the cranial vault, stroke) or from or a combination of these.
The causes and consequences of post concussive syndrome vary considerably with the age of the person. Children for example are most vulnerable to falls when not vigilantly supervised, serious injury in motor vehicles unless adequately restrained, falling over or receiving knocks to the head whilst playing sport and through abuse such as is evident in the shaken baby syndrome.
Adolescents are susceptible through the generally impulsive, rashness of youth. The teenage years bring problems of peer pressure, under age drinking, abuse of alcohol and drugs and inexperienced and impaired driving. As a result, teenagers are very vulnerable to brain injuries and other serious injuries. Dares, for instance, diving from heights, diving into shallow water, high speed driving, ignoring safety rules, sports, and violence are all prominent causes of post concussive syndrome in this age group.
Common symptoms of post concussive syndrome include:
Confusion
Easily distracted and cannot do normal activities
Stares blankly
Blurred vision
Slurred speech
Delayed answering of questions
Stumbling or clumsiness, uncoordinated or cannot walk a straight line
Cries very easily or becomes angry easily or exhibits extreme emotions
Problem with memory, repeats self, repeatedly asks questions, unable to recall words or objects
Loss of consciousness
Loss of memory about accident
Headache
Nausea
Tiredness
Change in sleep
Unbalanced
Dizziness
Ringing in ears
Increased sensitivity to light or sounds
Mood changes — sad, irritable, non-motivated
Each incidence of brain injury is unique, requiring individualised programs, therapy and rehabilitation. The effectiveness of these programs depends on several factors including:
– Degree of severity
– Source of injury
– Pre-injury health
– Age
Hence, the goal of any rehabilitation programme is to help people regain the most independent level of functioning possible. Clinical experience shows that early intervention is necessary and most effective if undertaken as soon as practicable after the head injury. Since the brain and the body are not two separate entities and work in concert, the approach to rehabilitation at Learning Discoveries is multi-modal and holistic, encompassing the physical, cognitive and emotional dimensions of human healing using state of the art technologies to achieve these goals.
The revolutionary notion of “brain plasticity” (the brain’s ability to change its own structure and function through thought and activity) and exciting advancements in computer technology research has led to the following innovative assessments and methods being developed: QEEG (quantitative electroencephalograph), IVA (Integrated Visual and Auditory) , TOVA (Test of Variable of Attention) , Neurofeedback therapy and sound therapy. These methods are aimed at improving the symptoms of post concussive syndrome such as: brain fog, confusion, concentration problems, temper problems, irritability, depression, mood swings and headaches.
However, for those who have post concussive syndrome, the Low Energy NeuroFeedback System (LENS) is more effective that traditional biofeedback. LENS is a passive process and the person does not have to try and understand the feedback or learn how to regulate his or her brainwaves. Hence, LENS helps the central nervous system become more adaptive and responsive instead of remaining inflexible and reactive. So by not having to learn how to control one’s own brainwaves, the process of change begins immediately. And in comparison to other conventional training techniques, the changes are much more rapid and often more noticeable to clients and their families.
In summary, the Low Energy NeuroFeedback System offers a behavioural, non-pharmacological, non-surgical and non-psychotherapeutic way to produce relatively rapid resolution of difficult cognitive, mood, anxiety, mental clarity, energy and physical movement problems when compared with more traditional forms of therapy for post concussive syndrome.
For more information about the Low Energy NeuroFeedback System (LENS) or the following assessments: QEEG, IVA and TOVA or to make an appointment please send an email or contact us on (02) 9639 7778 during business hours.
