MTBI

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

MTBI is diagnosed when an individual experiences a very brief loss of consciousness and/or a short period of confusion following injury to the head (such as during a fall). MTBI is one of the most under-diagnosed and under-treated disorders. Although CT scans often don’t show changes in the brain, significant damage to the brain can occur, including both neurochemical changes and tearing of neurons (called Diffuse Axonal Injury). MTBI is often associated with changes in cognitive functioning, such as impaired memory and difficulty concentrating. Significant emotional issues can also become apparent, which are often related to adjustment to the injury or may be directly caused by brain trauma.

Pate’s treatment program includes:

• Thorough neuropsychological assessment to identify any cognitive impairment or emotional issues.
• Functional assessment to determine how an individual is performing there everyday life activities.
• Counseling (individual and family) to address psychological issues, including grief and adjustment to injury.
• Education and treatment for changes in cognition to assist the individual in effectively mitigating the effects of cognitive impairment associated with MTBI.

Outcome from a MTBI is usually good, however, if undiagnosed and untreated, an individual can experience worsening of symptoms due to the inability to successfully resume their everyday life activities.