Overview
Brain injury is a complex health issue. Throughout DoD significant strides are being made in areas of education, prevention and delivery of health care to people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) across the services. The Military Health System is dedicated to continuing to advance the research and understanding of brain injuries and ensure the best care and resources for those who suffer from them.
What is TBI?
A TBI is the result of a blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the function of the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. The severity of such an injury may range from "mild"-a brief change in mental status or consciousness-to "severe," an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia after the injury. The terms "concussion" and "mild TBI" (mTBI) are interchangeable. Most TBIs are mild, and those who sustain them usually recover completely within 1 to 3 months. There are many causes of TBI, including falls, motor-vehicle accidents, assaults, bullets, fragments and blasts.