TBI Recovery for a Child after an Accident in Denver

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by trauma to the skull that damages brain function. TBIs can include relatively minor injuries such as concussions, but also encompass more serious injuries that may cause permanent brain damage.

In children, TBI is a serious injury because the brain is still in development stages and cognitive impairment might not be immediately measurable. While symptoms of TBI mirror those of adults with similar conditions, a child may be more susceptible to severe effects of the injury.

In some cases, delayed effects can create lifelong physical and mental challenges. Careful monitoring and ongoing support are the two key factors of TBI recovery for children. Further, recovery time varies depending on severity.

Accident in Denver: Common Effects of TBI in Children

It’s important to remember that because of the ongoing development of a child’s brain, deficits caused by TBI can continue to appear for years after the injury. For adults, whose brains are fully developed, impairment resulting from TBI is typically detected within months of the injury.

Some common deficits to be aware of after a child suffers a TBI include the following.

• difficulty processing information.
• trouble concentrating.
• impaired judgment and reasoning.
• speech impairment.
• short-term memory loss.
• mood swings.
• vision or hearing problems.
• headaches.
• depression and/or anxiety disorder.
• muscle spasticity.
• attention span impairment.
• communication challenges.
• motor coordinator impairment.
• self-esteem issues.
• seizures.
• paralysis.
• fatigue.
• and, emotional disorders.

Accident in Denver: Helping TBI Recovery in Children

When a child returns to everyday life after a TBI, there may be a significant period of adjustment. At school, the student might need time to adjust to new challenges, for example. It is important to exercise flexibility and patience with a child recovering from TBI as new impairments and symptoms present themselves.

Some suggestions for aiding and dealing with child brain injury recovery include the following.

• Learn as much as you can about TBI. Find a support group or other resources that will help you as the adult to deal with the changes that have occurred in the child’s life. Your local Brain Injury Association may have contact information for groups of parents going through similar circumstances so that you can build a support network.
• Work with the child’s medical team to maintain ongoing communication and monitoring so you can address and accommodate all new or existing deficits in the child’s abilities.
• Work with school professionals to develop an individualized education program (IEP) so that the child receives assistance with schoolwork as needed and school staff is aware of his or her challenges.
• Enlist the services of a psychologist who specializes in TBI. If the child is suffering from any emotional effects of this type of injury, monitor progress and help the child manage any negative or challenging feelings.

TBI recovery may be a lifelong journey for a child. Consistent support and flexibility as well as the appropriate resources for assistance will help the child to manage his or her injury.

Accident in Denver: Recovering Damages Related to TBI Recovery

In some cases, TBI can cause long-term or permanent disabilities that impact the child for the rest of his or her life. If another party’s negligent actions caused the injuries and resultant medical bills related to TBI recovery, you may pursue damages in an injury claim.

Call attorney D.J. Banovitz today to set up a free consultation to review your case and determine the types of damages you may recover in a claim related to your expenses as a parent as well as the effects of the brain injury on your child. Call to schedule an appointment at 303-300-5060 or contact us online.