Patient Story: Scott (Head Injury)

Scott suffered a severe traumatic brain injury 10 years ago after a mountain bike accident.

He had a long period of rehabilitation in several specialist NHS hospitals.

In 2016, Scott was able to come home to live with his mum and sister in their home, which had been adapted. Scott required 24-hour care which was provided by a rota of carers and family. When he first came home, Scott was fully dependent for all his needs. He was hoisted to get in and out of bed. He was only able to sit in a fully moulded wheelchair which provided him with full postural support as Scott was not able to support himself. Scott had just started to speak but his voice was very quiet and he struggled to clearly articulate his speech.

As it was difficult for Scott to access NHS physiotherapy, 3 years ago he was referred to PWYA. At this point, Scott was experiencing severe pain in his right shoulder and was keen to increase his independence. He was unable to actively move his right arm and leg and he struggled to move his left side using normal movement patterns, which limited his function. Scott has been seen regularly since then and enjoys his physio sessions.

Physiotherapy treatment first involved stretches and muscle realignment; carers are now able to assist Scott in getting dressed without any pain. Activation of muscles and a focus on patterns of movement have increased Scott’s selective activity in his left arm and leg. Through work on sensory awareness and orientation to his right side, Scott has now started to be able to actively move his right leg – he enjoys using his static pedals!

Improvements in the mobility of Scott’s thorax and pelvis, activation of core muscles, and work focusing on midline awareness have enabled him to achieve an improved sitting position. Scott is now able to sit in a wheelchair with an upright back, which enables him to engage with the world around him and to participate in activities such as painting and cooking. Scott has begun to feed himself. Improvements in head and neck alignment, and rib movement, have also allowed his communication to improve – he can now talk loudly and express his needs.

Scott is able to stand with a stand aid hoist; he uses this in therapy and with his family. Scott loves the experience of being on his feet and being taller than his mum again!

Scott’s goals are focused on ensuring he remains pain-free, increasing his active movement in his right leg, improving his sitting balance, and increasing his independence.