Exercise Physiology for Acquired Brain Injury: Regaining Strength, Function, and Confidence
- Sven Rees
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 22
Moving Forward After a Life-Changing Event
An acquired brain injury (ABI) can turn life upside down. Whether from trauma, stroke, infection, or tumour, the road to recovery can feel long and uncertain. You may struggle with fatigue, movement, balance, or memory—and wonder what’s possible.
At Exercise Matters, we help people living with ABI rebuild their strength, mobility, and confidence. With structured, evidence-based Exercise Physiology, recovery becomes possible, purposeful, and empowering.
What Is Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?
ABI refers to any brain damage that occurs after birth due to:
Traumatic brain injury (e.g. car accidents, falls)
Stroke or aneurysm
Infection (e.g. meningitis, encephalitis)
Hypoxia (oxygen deprivation)
Brain tumour or surgery
Muscle weakness or spasticity
Balance or coordination issues
Cognitive impairments (e.g. memory, attention)
Fatigue and low stamina
Sensory changes or pain
How Exercise Physiology Helps
Exercise Physiology helps people with ABI restore movement, reduce disability, and regain function over time.
Benefits Include:
Increased strength and functional independence
Improved balance and fall prevention
Enhanced energy and cardiovascular health
Cognitive engagement through dual-task training
Confidence building and goal achievement
Evidence: Bateman et al. (2019) found that supervised physical activity improves mobility, fatigue, and psychological wellbeing in people with ABI.
Our Approach at Exercise Matters
We provide person-centred rehabilitation that meets you where you’re at.
Programs May Include:
Strength and resistance training
Gait and walking retraining
Balance and posture work
Fatigue management and pacing strategies
Cognitive-motor dual-task training
Return-to-activity and sport reconditioning
Sessions can be delivered in-clinic, at home, or via telehealth (where appropriate). We also provide detailed reports for NDIS reviews or medical teams.
Case Study: Josh, 34, ABI After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Josh sustained a moderate brain injury with left-side weakness and coordination issues. After 12 weeks of Exercise Physiology:
His walking speed improved by 32%
He was able to complete daily tasks with less assistance
He returned to light part-time work with occupational therapy support
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is exercise safe after a brain injury?
Yes. Programs are always adapted to your current capacity and designed to support recovery, not push through symptoms.
2. How long does it take to see improvement?
Each person is different. Some notice gains in weeks; others may take months. Recovery continues long after the acute phase.
3. Can you help with fatigue and brain fog?
Yes. We teach pacing, energy conservation, and task structuring to manage fatigue and cognitive overload.
4. Do you work with NDIS?
Yes. We support NDIS participants with reports, therapy, and goal-based programs.
5. Do you coordinate with other providers?
Absolutely. We work closely with neurologists, physiotherapists, OTs, psychologists, and care teams.
Let’s Rebuild What Matters Most
Whether you're recovering from trauma or rebuilding life after illness, Exercise Physiology can help you take back strength, function, and purpose.
References:
Bateman A et al. (2019). The role of physical activity in acquired brain injury rehabilitation. Brain Inj.
Turner-Stokes L. (2015). Evidence-based rehabilitation for ABI. Clin Rehabil.
NDIS Operational Guidelines. (2023). https://www.ndis.gov.au
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