Strategies for Maximizing Your Return to Full Functional Capacity
In the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), your first concern is often about your physical abilities. Can you reasonably expect a full return of physical functionality? What can you do to improve your chances of full functional restoration? Let’s look at some of the ways you can help your brain restore its connections with your physical abilities.
Do the Right Things to Trigger the Benefits of Neuroplasticity
As we mentioned in an earlier blog, your brain has a remarkable capacity to reroute neural signals through a process known as neuroplasticity. By doing the right things, you can help your brain rewire and create new neural pathways, helping you restore physical abilities. To maximize the effects of neuroplasticity, you want to engage in rehab or therapy that targets specific body parts and functions. The more you repeat those exercises or functions, the greater the benefit. Additionally, you want to be continually pushing yourself to do more. Expect that you’ll occasionally plateau, but keep moving forward.
Research has also shown that mental imagery can be effective in promoting neuroplasticity. Visualize the functions you want to restore and you may discover that you’re making better progress at them.
Eat the Right Foods
There are specific foods that feed the brain—a diet rich in fish, eggs and dark, leafy greens is recommended. Make certain you get plenty of vitamin B12, and use walnuts as your go-to-snack.
Don’t Limit Your Therapy to the PT Center
While it’s helpful to work directly with physical therapists and assistants, you’ll make more progress if you commit to doing your exercises at home as well.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Studies consistently show that sleep is critical in restoring brain and body functions after a TBI. Get into the habit of going to bed and getting up at the same time every evening and morning. If possible, avoid taking naps during the day that will interfere with your sleep at night. Minimize your use of or access to any type of screen. They all contribute to poor sleeping habits.
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, with offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, we can help you put together a comprehensive program to maximize your physical recovery after a traumatic brain injury. Contact us online or call our offices at (816)226-9957 to schedule an appointment.