In our last blog we discussed the dangers of thyroid disease to help increase awareness, but January also happens to be Winter Sports Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness (TBI) Month, and we at CAM Physical Therapy and Wellness Services believe it to be another important topic we’d like to bring attention to.

A TBI is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head that interferes with normal brain function. TBIs can range from mild (a brief change in mental state or consciousness) to severe (extended period of unconsciousness or mental loss after injury), but the majority of them are mild and are commonly referred to as concussions.

A number of popular winter sports—including ice hockey, skiing, snowboarding and ice skating—combine high speeds with slippery surfaces, which is a dangerous pairing that can lead to serious injuries like TBIs. Even basketball, though it doesn’t have the same dangerous reputation as sports like football, carries a risk of TBI that must be acknowledged during the winter.

Fortunately, in recent years the amount of attention given to TBIs and concussions has grown significantly, as it is now a regularly discussed topic; however, more still needs to be done. Every year, about 1.7 million Americans experience a TBI, and sports and recreational activities account for roughly 21% of all TBIs in children and adolescents. Despite the continuous efforts being made in this arena, TBIs remain a leading cause of death and disability in these younger age groups.

In honor of Winter Sports TBI Awareness Month, CAM would like to offer these helpful tips on preventing TBIs in the first place and what to do if one is suspected:

• Wear well-maintained and properly-fitted equipment, especially helmets
• In organized sports like basketball and ice hockey, parents and coaches should stress the importance of following the rules and practicing safe play
• Encourage kids to not play through head injuries that might go unnoticed on the sidelines and to report any strange behavior from teammates
• When skiing or snowboarding, avoid going through the trees and other obstacles, and be aware of blind spots, turns and sudden drops
• Don’t wear headphones on the slopes, as they can be distracting
• After any blow to the head, the individual should be evaluated immediately by a trained coach or medical professional; signs of a concussion include persistent headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light
• If signs of a TBI are present, further medical evaluation is necessary

CAM Physical Therapy and Wellness Services LLC offers balance evaluations to determine if a TBI has occurred. In confirmed cases, we can also create a rehabilitation program that will help patients with TBIs regain their physical abilities, relearn how to perform daily tasks and improve their overall strength and fitness. We encourage residents of Bowie, Glenn Dale, Hyattsville and Laurel, MD to take steps to prevent TBIs, to be aware of possible signs after a head injury, and to visit us for an evaluation or treatment when needed. Click here for more information on TBIs or call 301-853-0093 to schedule an appointment.