This infocomic describes common causes of balance problems after traumatic brain injury and provides strategies to manage balance problems.

Managing Balance Problems After Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Ms. Blackrock, a physical therapist, is leading a traumatic brain injury (TBI) support group in the community gym. She is teaching how to manage balance problems after TBI.

After my TBI, I learned about ways to improve my balance. Does anyone want to share their TBI experience?

I hit my head while playing football.

Thank you for sharing your experience! Now let’s talk about what balance is.

Ms. Blackrock explains that balance is the ability to keep your body centered over your base of support.

So, what do you think causes balance problems after a TBI?

Maybe it’s because of the medicine a person takes.

Ms. Blackrock explains that other causes of balance issues after a TBI include:

Postural hypertension. This occurs when your blood pressure drops too low when you stand up after sitting or lying down.

Vision problems.

Inner ear problems.

Problems with nerves, like the ability to feel your feet.

An injury to certain areas of the brain such as the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordinating movement.

Mental health issues. This may include psychogenic dizziness, which is dizziness caused by mental factors rather than physical ones.

Ms. Blackrock explains that neurologists; ear, nose, and throat doctors; and physical therapists can help diagnose a balance issue. A physical therapist can help you learn how to improve your balance.

There are many ways you can improve balance problems after TBI.

How to Improve Balance:

What do you mean by “different types of conditions” when practicing standing or walking?

How long will it take to improve my balance? It may depend on the severity of your injury and your health status before your TBI, and many other factors.

Remember, having good balance can help you prevent another TBI. It can help you live the life you want more safely. A health care provider should monitor treatments for your balance problems.

monitor treatments for your balance problems. I hope you feel more confident about your ability to have good balance and better manage your TBI.

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