03/02/2026
A brain injury can go unnoticed, which is why doctors rely on multiple tools to assess them. Imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide detailed views of the brain and can reveal bleeding, swelling or structural changes. Early evaluation and testing is essential because it guides that patient’s treatment plan. Doctors ask questions to assess memory, attention and problem-solving skills. They also perform a full evaluation of the patient, while therapy teams look at movement, speech and daily skills to see how the injury is affecting life in real-time.
There are two types of brain injury — traumatic and non-traumatic — which stem from different causes. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a disruption in normal brain function caused by an external force such as a bump, blow or jolt to the head often occurring in an accident, sports injury or fall. Non-traumatic brain injuries are damage to the brain caused by internal factors, such as illness or oxygen deprivation. Non-traumatic brain injuries are often considered a type of acquired brain injury and consist of strokes, tumors or cardiac arrest.
Using advanced diagnostic tools and patient evaluations, our rehabilitation hospitals determine the right path forward for each patient. Guided by physician-led multidisciplinary teams, every patient undergoes a full assessment and receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Read more below about how we help people regain their abilities and independence.