Music, A Dog, Plus A Little Determination

There is so much documentation on the effects of Music Therapy in TBI patients.  It is said that nothing activates the brain so extensively as music. It is being used more and more to help rebuild language in uninjured areas of the brain.

The ability of our brains to change is called neuroplasticity.   It is the brain paving new pathways around the damaged areas. Language is largely held in the left side of the brain.  Music activates visual, motor and coordination areas on both sides of the brain. A great example of this is Gabby Giffords, whose left hemisphere was injured. Music therapy was successful in helping her find her words through song.

We jump started Monday morning with some Music Therapy. Kyle's therapist was happy to oblige Kyle with his request for some Tech N9ne music. She did not take Kyle for a Tech N9ne fan and she jokingly warned that she might have to turn down the volume for any passers by.  She had Kyle tapping his hand, bopping his head to the beat, and singing the word "dysfunctional" in the chorus while she sang along..."don't you know".


Next on the agenda came some sweet canine treats for a sweet canine friend.

Continuing our morning, Physical Therapy proved to be quite another story....

Kyle's first attempts at standing.

So much pain!

Melanie pushes him through it.

As each day brings new hopes, renewed strengths, Kyle made another attempt at standing on Tuesday morning.

This time, much more successful!