A TBI is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. The severity of a TBI may range from “mild” (i.e., a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to “severe” (i.e., an extended period of unconsciousness or memory loss after the injury). Most TBIs that occur each year are mild, commonly called concussions.

Physical symptoms

• Loss of consciousness for a few seconds to a few minutes
• No loss of consciousness, but a state of being dazed, confused or disoriented
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Problems with speech
• Difficulty sleeping
• Sleeping more than usual
• Dizziness or loss of balance

Sensory symptoms

• Sensory problems, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, a bad taste in the mouth or changes in the ability to smell
• Sensitivity to light or sound

Cognitive or mental symptoms

• Memory or concentration problems
• Mood changes or mood swings
• Feeling depressed or anxious

Natural Remedies for Brain Injury Recovery

Aquatic Therapy: For brain injury patients with severe physical limitations, aquatic therapy can be a great fit. Aquatic therapy is skilled physical therapy that takes place in a warm water pool. The water makes your body lighter and easier to move but still provides enough resistance to improve your strength. Some of the benefits of aquatic therapy include:

• Decreasing muscle spasms and spasticity
• Decreasing the force of gravity to make walking easier
• Increasing circulation and cardiac function
• Improving body posture and balance

Natural Healthy Brain Foods and Vitamins: Probably the best natural remedies for brain injury come from the food you eat. Your brain needs fuel to function and to heal, and its main source of fuel comes from what you eat. You’ll want to consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, these will reduce inflammation and stimulate your brain’s production of new nerve cells. Some foods you can eat to promote brain healing include salmon, blueberries, and avocados.

In addition, turmeric has many neuroprotective benefits and reduces inflammation in the brain, so definitely consider adding that to your diet.

Massage Therapy: Many of the symptoms associated with mild traumatic brain injury (such as cognitive defects and balance issues) are identical to the symptoms of whiplash. So if you feel like nothing is working to reduce your symptoms, it’s possible the issue is stemming from your neck. Massage therapy is a great way to relieve tension in your neck and finally get rid of those symptoms.