Summary Report: Evidence for the Effectiveness of Rehabilitation for Persons with Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

We evaluated the evidence for effectiveness of rehabilitation methods throughout the phases of recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI) in adults. MEDLINE, HealthSTAR, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched, and a total of 3,098 abstracts were reviewed. The strongest studies were critically appraised and their data placed in evidence tables. Results showed that to determine the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions for persons with TBI, a commitment must be made to population-based studies, strong controlled research design, standardization of measures, adequate statistical analysis, and specification of health outcomes of importance to persons with TBI and their families.

Traumatic brain injury, the hidden pandemic: A focused response to family and patient experiences and needs

“…This ultimately negatively affects caregiver wellness and family resilience. [9,10] Outpatient rehabilitation is also very limited, and most patients receive no more than 30 minutes of physiotherapy or occupational therapy per week at their community healthcare centre.…”

Community integration: Current issues in cognitive and vocational rehabilitation for individuals with ABI

“…From 1990 to 2000, supported employment and other practical strategies to promote employment for individuals with ABI were coming into the mainstream. In the late 1990s, Chestnut et al evaluated the effectiveness of rehabilitation throughout the recovery phases of ABI by reviewing more than 3,000 abstracts [29]. Results showed that to determine the effectiveness of rehabilitation intervention for persons with ABI, research studies needed to use a standardized assessment protocol.…”

Rehabilitation following acquired brain injury: concise guidance

“…There is now good evidence for the effectiveness [3][4][5] and cost benefits of rehabilitation. 6 In more severe head injury, early rehabilitation is associated with better outcomes 7,8 and is demonstrated to repay the initial investment and result in cost-savings overall.…”