Brain Injury
Brain injuries can significantly affect how the brain processes information and controls movement. This can have a direct impact on balance, coordination, posture and functional mobility. For orthotic patients, these changes may impact walking patterns and everyday movement, making bespoke orthotic support an important part of rehabilitation and long‑term management.
Orthotic support can help improve stability, safety, and confidence, supporting individuals to remain as active and independent as possible following a brain injury.
What is a Brain Injury?
A brain injury occurs when the brain is damaged by an external force or by internal disruption to normal brain function. When a brain injury occurs after birth, it is known as an acquired brain injury (ABI).
ABIs can be divided into two categories:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) – caused by an external force such as a fall, road traffic accident, sports injury, or assault.
- Non‑traumatic brain injury (NTBI) – caused by medical events such as stroke, brain tumour, infection, haemorrhage, or lack of oxygen to the brain.
The effects of a brain injury vary depending on which areas of the brain are affected and the severity of the injury.
Because the brain controls movement, balance, muscle tone, sensation, cognition, and emotional regulation, damage can disrupt communication with the body. When this happens, people may experience changes in muscle control and coordination, leading to altered walking patterns, weakness, or reduced awareness of limb position.
What are the symptoms of a Brain Injury?
The symptoms of brain injury can vary for each individual and may change over time. Some people recover quickly from a mild brain injury or concussion, while others experience long‑term or permanent effects.
Common symptoms may include:
- Dizziness and headaches
- Balance and coordination difficulties
- Changes in muscle tone or control
- Sensory changes
- Memory and concentration difficulties
- Emotional or behavioural changes
- Fatigue and reduced stamina
More severe injuries may be associated with prolonged recovery, reduced awareness, or periods of coma. During early recovery, some individuals experience post‑traumatic amnesia, where memory is disrupted and behaviour may appear confused or uncharacteristic.
Treating Brain Injuries
There is no single treatment for a brain injury. Rehabilitation can be guided by a multidisciplinary team that includes neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists and orthotists.
Treatment focuses on maximising recovery, managing symptoms and supporting long‑term function. Orthotic support is commonly used alongside therapy to improve movement quality and reduce compensatory strain on the body.
At Dorset Orthopaedic, our dedicated team of Orthotists understands the complex challenges that can occur from a brain injury. With access to world‑leading technology and innovative orthotic treatments, we provide personalised support that helps patients move more confidently and maintain their independence.
Interested in finding out more about how we can support you or your loved one? Book an appointment with our Orthotists and discover a custom solution designed to support mobility and everyday comfort.