Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a complex injury that can affect a person’s physical, emotional and mental health. It’s a type of acquired brain injury that’s caused by a sudden force to the head or neck, such as a jolt/blow, object entering the skull, or shockwaves emanating from a blast. It can range from a concussion, which is a mild TBI, to a severe one that can cause a coma or even death.
The severity and impact of TBI depends not just on the level of injury, but also on the person’s age and health conditions. Even sub-concussive and mild to moderate TBI can cause a wide variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
When it comes to whether traumatic brain injury is a disability, the answer is a resounding yes. TBI greatly affects a person’s ability to lead a normal life and can cause a range of symptoms that make it difficult for them. Some of these symptoms include seizures, headaches, speech and language impairments, balance and coordination issues, cognitive impairments, depression, and emotional changes and issues with sleep. All of these can impact a person’s ability to work, and for this reason, TBI is considered a disability.
Traumatic Brain Injury Therapies
The good news is that there are treatment options available to help survivors and their caregivers manage the symptoms of TBI and maximize their physical, cognitive and emotional health. Treatment may include physical and occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, nutraceuticals, hormones, counseling and support groups, and vocational rehabilitation.
Warrior Angels Foundation Protocols
The Warrior Angels Foundation uses protocols curated by Dr. Mark Gordon and Dr. Michael Lewis that are aimed at treating the underlying cause of TBI-related symptoms. A study conducted in conjunction with the United States Marine Corps resulted in a substantial improvement of symptoms among active Marines. After 90 days of the protocol, 65% of active marines showed improvements between 50-100%. Dr. Gordon currently has over 1000 active clients and over 6000 that are improving every day.
Traumatic brain injury is, no doubt, a serious and complex injury that can negatively impact a person in many ways, but it’s important to remember that with the right support and resources, there’s hope for a successful recovery and successful life.
-Dr. Mark Gordon
Jahaziel Marrero, BSN, RN, EMT-P
