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Acquired Brain Injury

An acquired brain injury (ABI) refers to damage to the brain that occurs after birth and is not related to a congenital or degenerative condition. ABIs can result from various causes such as traumatic injury, stroke, infection, tumour, or lack of oxygen to the brain. The impact of an ABI can vary widely, affecting cognitive, physical, and emotional functions.

A diagnosis of acquired brain injury for your child means that there has been damage to their brain after birth. The effects can range from mild to severe, impacting cognitive abilities, motor skills, communication, and emotional well-being. The specific challenges your child faces will depend on the nature and extent of the brain injury. Early intervention and a personalised treatment plan are crucial for optimising recovery and improving your child’s overall quality of life.

How Can Neuro Alliance Assist My Child?

A multidisciplinary approach involving occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech pathology is crucial in supporting the recovery and development of a child with an acquired brain injury. These disciplines work together to address the unique challenges posed by the injury, promoting optimal functioning and enhancing the child’s quality of life. The interventions are tailored to the individual needs of the child, considering the specific nature of the acquired brain injury.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists play a vital role in helping individuals with ABIs regain independence in daily activities. For your child, OT may focus on:

Cognitive Skills: Enhancing memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive functions for improved daily functioning.

Fine Motor Skills: Developing hand-eye coordination and dexterity for tasks such as writing, dressing, and other self-care activities.

Adaptive Strategies: Introducing techniques and tools to compensate for cognitive or physical challenges in daily life.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists focus on improving physical function and mobility after an ABI. For your child, physiotherapy aims to:

Mobility and Coordination: Helping your child regain and improve movement, balance, and coordination.

Strength Training: Developing muscle strength and tone to address any weakness or impairment caused by the brain injury.

Gait Training: Assisting with walking and improving overall mobility.

Speech Pathology

Speech pathologists address communication and swallowing challenges associated with ABIs. For your child, speech pathology can involve:

Communication Skills: Enhancing speech, language, and social communication abilities, considering the specific challenges posed by the brain injury.

Swallowing Therapy: Assessing and treating difficulties related to swallowing, ensuring safe and effective nutrition.

Cognitive-Communication: Working on cognitive-communication skills such as problem-solving, reasoning, and memory to support overall cognitive development.

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