Major General Andrew P. Poppas, commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division and Fort Campbell, visited the posts Intrepid Spirit Center, Friday, for an update on the latest research and care for Soldiers with traumatic brain injuries and psychological health conditions. Intrepid Spirit is an outpatient center on Fort Campbell that treats about 1,800 to 2,700 patients monthly. The center has a dual mission of clinical care and clinical research. Poppas and several brigade and battalion commanders visited the Intrepid to better understand its capabilities for the Army and in helping Soldiers manage traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder and chronic pain. Well first, the level of professionalism of all the doctors that I have dealt with here has been exceptional, Poppas said. They walked through exactly what they are trying to accomplish with each of the tests and, as you [complete] them, you get to see what the test indicators mean. So, its educational as we go through it. The techniques used at Intrepid are oriented to neuromodulation, which is a process where the brain heals itself through brain exercise and reconditioning. Patients may use a combination of ancient methods like Tai-Chi, yoga and acupuncture as well as ultra-modern … Continue reading →

Most Americans have heard about the toll of traumatic brain injury on the military. It is painful to read of the nonstop migraines, sleepless nights, failing memory, uncontrollable rages, persistent and intense anxiety, broken families, lost jobs and suicides during and after service that go with the condition. Since 2001, more than 360,000 military service members have been diagnosed with TBI. Until recently nothing could reliably be done to relieve suffering. But now, through Senate Bill 197, the California Legislature is moving to assist a public-private partnership that returns 92 percent to 94 percent of active duty TBI sufferers treated to family and careers with a 50 percent drop in opioid use versus other modes of care. After the Senates recent unanimous approval, it remains only for the Assembly Appropriations Committee to release SB 197 from the suspense file, so the entire Assembly, too, can give an official hurrah to this visionary initiative. Over the last eight years, a remarkable not-for-profit foundation has been giving TBIs military victims increasing reason for hope. The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, in collaboration with one of Californias top brain injury experts and a nationwide team of doctors and researchers, has been transforming the terror … Continue reading →

A Lincoln solicitors is supporting a one-day conference exploring the latest developments in the treatment and management of brain injuries. Langleys Solicitors is supporting, 'From Roadside to Rehabilitation' a Patient's Journey which is being staged by the charity Headway Lincolnshire on September 14. The conference will hear from health professionals and experts about the rehabilitation process involved for brain injured patients. Latest figures show that more than 4,000 people in Lincolnshire sustained brain injury in 2013 to 2014. Last year, Headway Lincolnshire provided support to 140 new patients. Members of Langleys medical law and private client teams are also taking part in the event, providing an insight into a solicitors role in the rehabilitation process. Andrew Cragg, head of the medical law team at Langleys, said: The conference will bring together health and social care professionals and experts like ourselves who are involved in a patients treatment and rehabilitation following a brain injury. Our aim is to discuss the latest best practice to enable all of us to support our clients as they continue on their rehabilitation journey. The conference takes place at The Showroom, Tritton Road, Lincoln. To book a place, email Ann-Marie Smith: info@headwaylincolnshire.org.uk Go here to read … Continue reading →

Jordan Deschenesjdeschenes@tauntongazette.com DIGHTON In 2013, Roberto Cabral remembers that his life changed in an instant. As he was operating a forklift at Bristol Marine, he fell two stories and suffered a traumatic brain injury. At the time, the ensuing situation seemed hopeless for Cabral he was left deaf in his left ear, could not balance while standing, and had trouble regulating his emotions. After nearly four years, Cabral is now an avid runner with a half-marathon already under his belt. This Sunday, hell be running seven miles to raise awareness about TBIs on behalf of the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts in the 2017 New Balance Falmouth Road Race. I struggled to come to terms with my injuries at first, it was hard to swallow, said Cabral. I had to accept that this was a new normal for me and that everyday is a new challenge. Each one, I take seriously. In addition to a TBI, Cabral also suffered spinal fractures, broken ribs, a punctured lung, blood clots, and fractures in his left temporal and frontal lobes. As a result of his brain injuries, doctors told him that hed have trouble with the most basic everyday activities, from walking to … Continue reading →