RehabifyWhat a head injury can change
- Movement and balance, weakness, stiffness or poor coordination
- Thinking, memory, attention, planning and slower processing
- Communication and swallowing
- Behaviour and mood, irritability, low mood, anxiety or poor sleep
- Headaches, dizziness and tiredness, common even after mild injury
- Spasticity and joint stiffness after moderate or severe injury
Who should see a rehab doctor
Signs to get checked
- People recovering from a moderate or severe head injury, once medically stable
- People with headaches, dizziness, poor concentration or tiredness weeks after a mild injury or concussion
- Families caring for someone with changes in behaviour or daily function
- Students or workers planning a return after a head injury
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
History
How the injury happened, hospital care, scans, and changes the family has noticed.
- 02
Examination
Strength, tone, balance, walking, arm use, screening of memory and attention, and daily tasks.
- 03
Goals
Agreed with the person and family, such as self-care, safe walking or a graded return to work.
- 04
Home and family
Routines, safety advice, family training and a step-by-step return to study, work and driving.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Bring discharge summaries, CT or MRI reports and a list of medicines
- Bring a family member who knows how the person was before and after the injury
- Note changes in sleep, mood, memory or behaviour
After your visit
Video follow-ups can help check progress at home. You can send questions on WhatsApp between visits.
When to get help urgently
Common questions
How long does recovery from a head injury take?
It varies widely. Most people with a mild injury or concussion recover within weeks. Recovery from a moderate or severe injury can continue for months or years. Regular rehab, rest, sleep and a gradual return to activity support recovery.
Why does my family member seem like a different person?
Injury to parts of the brain that control emotions and behaviour can cause irritability, low mood, impulsiveness or loss of interest. These changes are common and often improve with time, structure and support. The team can guide the family and arrange psychology support.
When can I return to work or study after a concussion?
Usually step by step, starting with short hours and light tasks once symptoms allow. Most people return within a few weeks. If symptoms such as headache or poor focus last longer, a rehab plan can help.
When is it safe to drive after a head injury?
It depends on the severity of the injury, fits, vision, reaction time and thinking skills. Do not drive until a doctor advises it is safe. The doctor will assess you and guide you on legal and safety needs.
Can rehab help years after a brain injury?
Often yes. Rehab can still improve walking, stiffness, pain, daily routines and confidence long after the injury. Goals are set around what matters most now.
Sources
- [1]
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guideline NG232. Head injury: assessment and early management, 2023
- [2]
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) guideline 130. Brain injury rehabilitation in adults
- [3]
World Health Organization (WHO). Package of interventions for rehabilitation, traumatic brain injury module
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.