Non-pharmacological interventions for perceptual disorders following stroke and other adult-acquired, non-progressive brain injury
Abstract Background Stroke and other adult-acquired brain injury may impair perception leading to distress and increased dependence on others. Perceptual rehabilitation includes functional training, sensory stimulation, strategy training and task repetition. Objectives To examine the evidence for improvement in activities of daily living (ADL) six months post randomisation for active intervention versus placebo or no […]
Modification of the home environment for the reduction of injuries
Abstract Background Injury in the home is common, accounting for approximately a third of all injuries. The majority of injuries to children under five and people aged 75 and older occur at home. Multifactorial injury prevention interventions have been shown to reduce injuries in the home. However, few studies have focused specifically on the impact […]
Motorcycle rider training for the prevention of road traffic crashes
Abstract Background Riding a motorcycle (a two-wheeled vehicle that is powered by a motor and has no pedals) is associated with a high risk of fatal crashes, particularly in new riders. Motorcycle rider training has therefore been suggested as an important means of reducing the number of crashes, and the severity of injuries. Objectives To […]
Bradykinin beta-2 receptor antagonists for acute traumatic brain injury
Abstract Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Cerebral oedema, the accumulation of fluid within the brain, is believed to be an important contributor to the secondary brain damage that occurs following injury. The release of kinins is thought to be an important factor in the development of […]
Interventions for apathy after traumatic brain injury
Abstract Background Apathy is a deficiency in overt behavioural, emotional and cognitive components of goal-directed behaviour. It is a common occurrence after traumatic brain injury (TBI), with widespread impact. We have systematically reviewed studies examining the effectiveness of interventions for apathy in the TBI population. Objectives To investigate the effectiveness of interventions for apathy in […]
Magnesium for acute traumatic brain injury
Abstract Background Acute traumatic brain injury is a leading cause of death and disability in young adults. Numerous pharmacological and non-pharmacological tools have been investigated and considered as potential mechanisms for improving neurological outcome. Magnesium has been considered as one of these potential therapeutic tools because of its activity on NMDA-receptors, calcium channels and neuron […]
Intervention for dysarthria associated with acquired brain injury in children and adolescents
Abstract Background The term ‘acquired brain injury’ (ABI) incorporates a range of aetiologies including cerebrovascular accident, brain tumour and traumatic brain injury. ABI is a common cause of disability in the paediatric population, and dysarthria is a common and often persistent sequelae associated with ABI in children. Objectives To assess the efficacy of intervention delivered […]
Bicycle helmet legislation for the uptake of helmet use and prevention of head injuries
Abstract Background Evidence exists to suggest that bicycle helmets may reduce the risk of head injuries to cyclists, however helmets are not uniformly worn by all bicycle users. Legislation has been enacted in some countries and jurisdictions to mandate helmet use by cyclists, however the issue remains controversial with opponents arguing that helmet laws may […]
Pharmacological interventions for spasticity following spinal cord injury
Abstract Background Spasticity is a major health problem for patients with a spinal cord injury (SCI). It limits their mobility and affects their independence in activities of daily living (ADL) and work. Spasticity may also cause pain, loss of range of motion, contractures, sleep disorders and impair ambulation in patients with an incomplete lesion. The […]
Helmets for preventing injury in motorcycle riders
Abstract Background Motorcycle crash victims form a high proportion of those killed or injured in road traffic crashes. Injuries to the head, following motorcycle crashes, are a common cause of severe morbidity and mortality. It seems intuitive that helmets should protect against head injuries but it has been argued that motorcycle helmet use decreases rider […]