What is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?
A brain injury can have a significant impact on a person's physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing. A Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs following an external force to the head, such as a road traffic collision, fall, sporting injury or assault. An Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is a broader term that includes any brain injury occurring after birth, including traumatic injuries as well as those caused by stroke, brain tumours, infections, lack of oxygen (hypoxic brain injury) or other medical conditions.
The effects of a brain injury vary considerably depending on the location and severity of the damage. Common difficulties include weakness, poor balance, walking problems, dizziness, fatigue, changes in coordination, muscle stiffness, reduced endurance, cognitive difficulties and reduced confidence with everyday activities. Recovery is different for every individual, and rehabilitation often continues long after discharge from hospital.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy is an essential part of brain injury rehabilitation, helping individuals maximise recovery, regain independence and improve quality of life. At Greenacre Physio, we provide personalised rehabilitation programmes designed around your specific goals, whether that is walking independently, returning to work, participating in sport or improving day-to-day function.
Treatment may include:
- Walking and gait rehabilitation
- Balance and coordination training
- Strength and mobility exercises
- Upper and lower limb rehabilitation
- Functional movement retraining
- Management of muscle stiffness and altered movement patterns
- Fatigue management and graded activity
- Falls prevention
- Exercise programmes to continue progress at home
- Advice for family members and carers where appropriate
Our rehabilitation is evidence-based, goal-orientated and designed to help you achieve meaningful improvements that support your daily life.
Common Symptoms We Treat
- Walking difficulties
- Balance problems
- Weakness following brain injury
- Muscle stiffness (spasticity)
- Reduced coordination
- Fatigue
- Dizziness and vestibular symptoms
- Reduced confidence with mobility
- Falls
- Difficulties returning to work, sport or everyday activities
Why Choose Greenacre Physio?
At Greenacre Physio, our clinicians have extensive experience working with people recovering from traumatic and acquired brain injuries across specialist NHS neurological services and private practice. We have supported patients throughout the rehabilitation pathway, from early recovery through to long-term community rehabilitation, helping individuals with complex neurological presentations achieve their rehabilitation goals.
We recognise that no two brain injuries are the same. Every rehabilitation programme is tailored to your individual needs, abilities and aspirations, with treatment adapting as you progress.
We offer appointments at our Essex and Cambridge clinics, as well as home visits and virtual consultations, making specialist neurological rehabilitation accessible wherever you are.
What to Expect
Your initial assessment will include a detailed discussion about your injury, current symptoms, mobility, balance, strength, function and personal goals. We will work with you to identify the areas having the greatest impact on your daily life and develop a rehabilitation programme tailored specifically to your needs.
As your recovery progresses, your treatment plan will be regularly reviewed and progressed to ensure you continue moving towards your goals safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help months or years after a brain injury?
Yes. Recovery following a brain injury can continue for many years. Targeted neurological rehabilitation can improve mobility, strength, balance, confidence and function, even long after the initial injury.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self-refer directly to Greenacre Physio. We also receive referrals from GPs, consultants, case managers, solicitors and other healthcare professionals.
Can family members be involved in rehabilitation?
Absolutely. Family members and carers often play an important role in rehabilitation. Where appropriate, we provide education and advice to help support recovery outside of therapy sessions.
Can I use my private medical insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by several major private medical insurers. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding your cover before booking.
Book an Appointment
If you are recovering from a traumatic or acquired brain injury and are looking for specialist neurological physiotherapy, we're here to help. Book an appointment at one of our Essex or Cambridge clinics, arrange a home visit, or schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced neurological physiotherapists.