Physical abilities after head injury. A retrospective study

A two-year retrospective study of head-injured patients was done to determine physical abilities of these patients at the time of discharge from an inpatient rehabilitation service. The relationship of nine specific activities of daily living to cognitive level, discharge placement status, medical or trauma complications, and other injuries was studied. The modal patient is described. At time of discharge, most patients were able to move in bed, achieve and maintain sitting balance, transfer, achieve and maintain standing, and walk on level surfaces. Additionally, fewer than half of the patients studied were independent in stair climbing. Wheelchair management was considered a new activity for a majority of patients; only 56 percent of the patients achieved independence in this activity.