Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be slight to very serious. It results after a blow to the head and everyone is affected in different ways. Some people have signs and symptoms immediately and some take longer to manifest. According to the CDC 50,000 die, 235,000 are hospitalized, and 1.1 million people are treated and released from an emergency department yearly for traumatic brain injury. Children and older adults are greatly affected by this due to falls. Falls are frequent in older adults due to the changes in their mobility. Many of my patients are at risk for falls that is why they have emergency response buttons and medical equipment such as: canes, walkers, wheelchairs, grab bars, etc. According to The CDC falls are the leading cause of TBI and rates are highest for children ages 0 to 4 years and adults ages 75 years and older. Education seems to be one of the only ways to help prevent TBI when it is related to falls. As health care professionals we can caution our elderly patients to make sure they are using their assistive devices, have clear pathways, and emergency response buttons. For children we can educate parents on how serious TBI is for children. Monitoring children closely and making sure they are properly in their car seats are just a couple of measures that can be taken. According to Salvo and Anderson, massage therapy is not recommended during injuries such as concussions or other head injuries. The physician should agree to any massages before any action is taken.
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