A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. People in Oklahoma who sustain TBIs may be interested to know that the brain actually has a natural suspension system that helps to lower the effects of major impacts.
There are membranes surrounding the brain that have a vital role in shock absorption and in preventing the damaging effects of a head impact. According to one researcher, the membranes essentially have the same function as a vehicle’s suspension. Research conducted by engineers at Washington University in St. Louis assessed the degree of protection the membrane layers provide.
Six people volunteered to undergo magnetic resonance elastography, or MRE, for the research. During the procedure, a vibrating pillow was used to cause tiny skull vibrations, which were measured by sensors that had been implanted in a mouthguard. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the motion of the brain.
When compared to a gelatin model, the vibration effects on the volunteers’ brains was delayed and not as strong. One researcher stated that the motion to the volunteers’ brains was weakened by 90 percent. Researchers hope to expand the study in the future so that certain factors, such as gender and age, can be considered.
Individuals who sustain a brain injury due to the negligence of others may have legal recourse. A personal injury attorney may examine the factors surrounding a case and advise a victim of legal options. Financial damages may be pursued if a client suffered a permanent disability or long-term injury from the TBI.