Neurology is the study of the brain, brainstem, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. As we move in and around the world, accidents and traumatic events are expected to happen. Neurological trauma is defined by an injury to the brain, spine, or nerves. These injuries are usually caused by an accident, fall, event with a motor vehicle, outdoor equipment, or are sports injury-related.
Common symptoms a patient may experience after an accident are:
- Problems with memory
- Lack of attention and concentration
- Confusion
- Balance impairment
- Fainting
- Dizziness / Vertigo
- Numbness or tingling
- Altered taste or loss of sense of smell
- Headaches
Generally, these are symptoms of a concussion, and if they persist, it may indicate traumatic brain injury. Other symptoms a patient may experience include back pain with radiation of the pain into the arms or legs associated with numbness, tingling, or weakness. These may be symptoms of disk protrusions in your spine. A neurologist is a specialist in assessing these problems and determining whether the numbness and weakness are due to a problem in your spine or the nerves in your arms and legs. Or, alternatively, if you are dealing with a concussion or traumatic brain injury.
The processes used to diagnose and evaluate the structure and function of the brain can include a review of the following:
- Study of an individual’s history
- Questionnaires
- Physical exam
- Diagnostic imaging
- Video NystagmoGraphy (VNG)
- Oculomotor assessment
- Computerized sensory motor assessment
- Computerized balance assessment
- Neurocognitive testing
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans of the brain and spine
- Neuropsychology testing for cognitive defect evaluations
- EMG/NCV (electromyography, nerve conduction velocity) testing to measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves
Most people with mild traumatic injuries to the head or spine end up doing well and finding complete recovery. Sometimes, though, even after a mild injury like a concussion, there may be symptoms that don’t go away. If this happens, your Neurologist will provide a treatment plan or refer you to Complete Injury Management specialists for ongoing professional care.
Some Brain Injury Rehabilitation Techniques:
- Neuromuscular oculomotor rehabilitation and visual stimulation
- Sensory motor integration
- Neurological timing, rhythm, and sequencing training
- Vestibular rehabilitation
- Balance rehabilitation
- Photo biomodulation
- Medication and nutrition therapy
- Cognitive therapy
- Psychological counseling
It takes a team of medical professionals and specialists to help individuals who have experienced neurological trauma due to a fall or motor vehicle accident. There is no quick and easy cure. But with the right provider and a plan, you can prevent further damage and encourage a recovery that allows you to live your best life possible.
If you or someone you know recently experienced neurological trauma or is displaying any of the symptoms listed above after initial medical treatment, contact Complete Injury Management and let us help get you to a qualified and experienced Neurological services provider today.