Traumatic Brain, Spine & Nerve Injuries
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be caused by a forceful bump, blow or jolt to the head or body or from an object that pierces the skull and enters the brain–however, not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. Primary effects on the brain include various types of bleeding and tearing forces that injure nerve fibers and cause inflammation, metabolic changes and brain swelling. There are several types of TBI, and they affect the lives of people of all ages.
The spinal cord extends from the lower part of the brain down through the lower back. A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the tight bundle of cells and nerves that sends and receives signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. SCI is caused by direct injury to the spinal cord itself or by damage to the tissue and bones (vertebrae) that surround the spinal cord. This damage can cause temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, strength and body functions below the site of injury.
Nerve injuries result from pressure, stretching or cutting, often following trauma. These injuries result in an interruption of signals to and from the brain, causing a loss of feeling and cessation of muscles working properly. This often results in pain, burning, tingling or loss of sensation. There are a range of types of nerve injuries that affect the peripheral nervous system–a network of sensory and motor nerves that connect the spinal cord and the brain.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or nerve injury, please visit the menu on the left for more information on the various diagnoses. There, you will also find details on prevention, symptoms, screening and treatment plans.