Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury in children and the role of Neurologic Music Therapy

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is classified as a physical injury to the brain that may or may not cause a change in mental status [1]. It can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury. When a person experiences TBI, their brain collides with their skull, and damage is caused as the brain moves back and forth inside the skull. This can cause bruising, tearing and shearing of nerve cells and blood vessels. As a result, TBI can lead to physical, cognitive, emotional and social changes in a person’s life. 

One in three children who survive TBI will have lifelong physical disabilities, including seizures and paralysis [2]. Many survivors also have problems with thinking and reasoning (cognitive deficits), communicating (speech problems), and movement (motor deficits). Emotional adjustment is also common after TBI, with one study finding that about 50% of children who survived TBI had clinically significant emotional problems 6 months after injury [3]. 

The Neurologic Music Therapy Process from Spring Forward Family Centre 

When it comes to neurologic music therapy, Spring Forward Family Centre is one of the best in the business. Our team of therapists has undergone rigorous training in order to provide the best possible service to our clients. 

But what does neurologic music therapy actually involve? Well, it’s a therapeutic use of music to address dysfunctions that can occur after a neurologic injury. This might include difficulties with cognitive functioning, impaired movement, or problems with speech expression. 

Music is a powerful tool that can help  build communication, support movement and improve brain function. In fact, research has shown that music therapy is even more effective than drug therapy in some cases! That’s why we’re so passionate about it here at Spring Forward Family Centre. 

We believe that every child deserves a chance to reach their fullest potential, and we’re proud to offer music therapy services in many of our local schools. 

What Neurologic Music Therapy Does for Children With TBI 

There’s good news for families whose children are living with the long-term effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Neurologic music therapy (NMT) can help improve cognitive function, motor skills, and speech expression. In fact, NMT has been shown to be one of the latest treatments for children with TBI. 

How does NMT work? Essentially, NMT is a form of intervention that uses music to stimulate the brain. It can be used alone or in combination with other therapies, depending on the child’s needs. Some of the benefits that have been seen in children with TBI who receive NMT include improved executive function, increased verbal output, and Improved motor planning and coordination abilities. 

Choosing a Qualified Music Therapist in the Area from Multi-Disciplinary Practice like Spring Forward Family Centre 

When you’re looking for a qualified music therapist in your area, keep in mind the potential of having experience in multiple disciplines. At Spring Forward Family Centre, we have a multi-disciplinary team that works together to help support children with neurological condititions. Their music therapists are especially trained to work with children on communication, cognition and sensorimotor function   as they rehabilitate from traumatic brain injuries. 

Our music therapists understand the importance of connecting to the child and building trust. They also recognise that a patient’s temperament and style of learning need to be taken into consideration when providing therapeutic treatment. Additionally, our team is familiar with the challenges associated with traumatic brain injury and its aftermath, so we can provide comprehensive services for your child’s therapy needs. 

By having access to multiple professionals with different backgrounds, such as speech therapists or occupational therapists, these experts can best strategize a plan that is tailored to your child’s individual needs. This collaborative approach often yields better outcomes than if each therapist were working independently without the benefit of their colleagues’ insight and input into the child’s overall development plan. 

Benefits of Neurologic Music Therapy for Children With TBI 

Neurologic music therapy offers many benefits for children with TBI. First and foremost, engaging in music activities that are catered to the individual creates a narrative for their recovery and facilitates neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity, or the ability of the brain to form new neuronal pathways to help with recovery, is essential in treating TBI, and neurologic music therapy provides an excellent platform for stimulating change. 

Neurologic music therapy has been found to improve executive functioning, a cognitive process that helps people plan and organise tasks. This has a direct impact on improving problem-solving abilities, and emotional regulation. Finally, neurologic music therapy also helps with physical rehabilitation by utilising rhythm to prime motor skills and neural speech processes. With all these benefits combined, it’s no wonder why so many parents are turning to music therapy as a successful approach to rehabilitating their children with TBI. 

FAQs About Working With a Neurologic Music Therapist and Spring Forward Family Centre NMT process 

Once you’ve done your research and decided to give neurologic music therapy a try, you likely have some questions about the process. Here are some of the most common FAQs: 

• How long will the intervention process take? The length of treatments depends on each individual case and could range from a few months to several years. 
• What happens after treatment is complete? After treatment is complete, you will be able to use NMT interventions in your everyday life with your child. Plus, our team continues to provide support for as long as it is needed – even after treatments have ended. 
• What kinds of results can we expect from NMT? Our goal when working with any family is to achieve the best outcome possible for all involved, so the impact that NMT can have varies greatly depending on each individual case. However, our experience tells us that children who receive NMT often show improved cognitive functioning, stronger motor skills and better speech expression. 

Conclusion 

When you’re looking for a music therapist for your child with a traumatic brain injury, it’s important to find one who is qualified and experienced in the specific needs of your child. Ask around for recommendations, and do your research to make sure you’re finding the best therapist for your child. With the right therapist, your child can make miraculous progress in their rehabilitation.