A traumatic brain injury:

The statement that a traumatic brain injury creates an alteration in brain function and results from external physical force accurately captures the essence of what constitutes a traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBIs arise when there is a significant impact or a jolt to the head that disrupts normal brain function. This disruption can occur through various mechanisms, such as a direct blow to the head, a fall, vehicle accidents, or any other incident where the head experiences an external force.

The impact of a TBI can vary greatly in severity, leading to a range of symptoms from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Importantly, TBIs are not limited to one specific cause or type of activity, and they can affect people of all ages. This definition effectively illustrates that TBIs are complex conditions that require careful assessment and management, as they can have various short-term and long-term effects on cognitive, physical, and emotional functioning.