Rehabilitation in the setting of neurotrauma

The effects of trauma to the central or peripheral nervous system may have a profound negative impact on multiple other organ systems, such as system-wide inflammation and excessive metabolic demands, as well as the associated negative consequences of protracted bed rest and immobility. Furthermore, trauma may lead to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments, which may cause significant disability, loss of functional independence, and poor quality of life. Acute medical and trauma care protocols are now achieving unprecedented survival rates from injuries that were once considered fatal. The field of rehabilitation is dedicated to ensuring that those who survive trauma achieve the highest level of independent function and return to active participation within their families and communities. This chapter addresses the complexity of organ system changes that occur with neurotrauma and the rehabilitative approaches to mitigating these adverse effects.