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Acquired Brain Injury

Specialist rehabilitation to restore function and independence

About Acquired Brain Injury

An acquired brain injury (ABI) is any damage to the brain that occurs after birth and is not related to a congenital or degenerative condition. Causes include traumatic injury (road traffic accidents, falls, sports injuries), stroke, infection such as meningitis or encephalitis, hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), and tumours. In the UK, around 1.4 million people attend A&E each year following a head injury (NHS). Recovery is highly individual — some people make a near-complete recovery whilst others have lasting difficulties. Early and sustained rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, is a key factor in maximising long-term outcomes.

ABI can affect people of any age. In children and young adults, traumatic brain injury and encephalitis are among the most common causes. Around 40,000 people in the UK sustain a severe or moderately severe brain injury each year (Headway UK). Young males aged 16–24 are at highest statistical risk of traumatic ABI.

Information sourced from: NHS, Headway UK, NICE Guideline NG41

Signs & Symptoms

  • Physical weakness or paralysis on one or both sides of the body (hemiplegia, paraplegia)
  • Altered muscle tone — spasticity, rigidity, or low tone
  • Balance and coordination difficulties
  • Fatigue and reduced stamina
  • Sensory changes including altered perception and pain
  • Cognitive difficulties — attention, memory, executive function
  • Communication impairments — dysphasia, dysarthria
  • Emotional and behavioural changes
  • Seizures

How Physiotherapy Helps

  • Regaining strength, movement and motor function through progressive exercise
  • Balance and coordination retraining
  • Gait re-education and walking rehabilitation
  • Tone management — stretching, positioning, and splinting
  • Fatigue management strategies and graduated activity programmes
  • Hydrotherapy for movement in a supported aquatic environment
  • Rebound therapy to promote motor learning and physical confidence
  • Return to sport or physical activity programmes
  • Assessment and recommendation of mobility aids and equipment
  • Family and carer training in handling, positioning and exercise programmes

What to Expect from Physio4Kids

1

A comprehensive initial assessment of motor function, balance, and mobility

2

A goal-focused rehabilitation plan aligned with the individual's priorities

3

Community-based sessions at home, school, or rehabilitation facility

4

Specialist written reports for case management, legal, or insurance purposes

5

Collaboration with neurologists, OTs, SLTs, neuropsychologists, and case managers

6

Long-term follow-up to support transition and adaptation as needs change

Ready to discuss Acquired Brain Injury support?

Our specialist physiotherapy team has extensive experience supporting children and young adults with acquired brain injury. Contact us today for a free initial conversation.