Brain injury and the importance of rehabilitation

Head injuries can affect us at any time in our lives – during birth, in the workplace, playing sports or in a car accident. There are a number of potential causes. While the majority of people who suffer head injury will experience no lasting effects, many others will be left with traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can be devastating and have life-long implications.

I currently act for a client who suffered a TBI following an accident at work. A TBI occurs when there is damage to brain tissue following excessive force or a blow to the head. A head injury is typically referred to as “closed” or “open”.

A “closed” head injury is the more common type of head injury. Although there may be significant impact to the head, the bones of the skull remain intact.

An “open” head injury occurs if an object has penetrated the skull and areas of the brain have been damaged. While these injuries are not as common, they can cause a significant amount of damage, depending on what part of the brain has been affected.

Depending on the extent of the damage to the brain, recovery can take months or even years. However, some brain injuries are so severe that the individual may never be the same again.
In my client’s case, she had suffered a significant blow to the head and has lost movement down one side of her body. She initially lost all memory, including the memory of those whom she was closest to. Serious head injuries can place a significant strain, not only on the injured person but also their family members. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that a rehabilitation plan is put in place at an early stage to support, not only the individual, but their family too.

The NHS can provide fantastic care for people who find themselves suffering as a result of a brain injury. However, due to the funding restraints and disparities in facilities, what is actually available can sometimes end up being a postcode lottery.

Rehabilitation aims to help the brain learn alternative ways of working in order to minimise the long term impact of the brain injury and help the individual and their family cope with their remaining disabilities.

A brain injury can have complex consequences and a claim for compensation should cover all the support an individual may need over their lifetime.

My client’s case is ongoing. However, I have obtained an admission of liability and secured interim payments to relieve the financial burden on my client and her family. A rehabilitation programme, tailored specifically to my client’s needs, is being funded by the insurers and has been put in place. It is important to remember that even though people can suffer similar injuries, no two people will respond the same to a brain injury; every client is individual.

Early intensive rehabilitation with a specialist programme is proven to be the most effective way in which to maximisenan individual’s recovery. It is hoped that the rehabilitation my client receives, together with her compensation, will help her to rebuild her life and will ensure that she has the medical and emotional support that she needs, both now and in the future.

*Disclaimer: The information on the Anthony Gold website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. It is provided without any representations or warranties, express or implied.*