The brain is a complex organ that can be damaged in a wide variety of ways.

Hydrocephalus and Microcephaly are examples of damage that can occur within the womb whilst Meningitis and Stroke are examples of acquired brain injury (ABI) that can occur later in life.  The brain can also be damaged by severe trauma such as a heavy fall or road traffic accident (TBI).  

Physical Activity with Brain Injury or Damage

The treatment of brain injury, be it genetic, acquired or traumatic, will be entirely dependent upon the type of injury incurred, but exercise will often form a very important part of the therapy. 

Exercise and physical activity with a brain injury might be directly beneficial to damage repair – as in the case of stroke rehabilitation – or it may find its role in general health, wellbeing and social integration as with many learning difficulty related conditions.

Cycling for Brain Injury or Damage

Brain injury or damage is such a broad and complex issue that every instance must be taken on its own circumstances and merits.  However, in most cases, where cycling in an active or passive way is possible, it is usually seen as being very beneficial, either as an exercise regime or for general wellbeing.  

In all cases, it’s important that the equipment properly supports the rider.  A trike is ideal for biking with brain injury or damage because of its inherent stability.  It’s important the trike provides a safe activity that is accessible and achievable within the limits of the person’s abilities, promotes a sense of wellbeing and self esteem and provides meaningful exercise wherever possible.  Whilst there may be challenges, it is rare that cycling cannot satisfy some or all of these objectives. 

Tomcat’s unique innovations help support cycling with brain injury or damage in a variety of ways.  Carer Control™ offers a pedestrian carer, control of the steering or braking when needed, whilst incorporating a Trailer Trike™ option provides the chance to tow the trike behind another bicycle.  A Dual Axle™ is very useful at this point, as it offers a fixed wheel axle for independent use but switches easily into freewheel mode if the rider needs to be helped home.  A Bionic Buddy™ is also an invaluable tool for assisting the rider – using an electric motor to drive the trike at pedestrian speed when required.

It is a much overused superlative, but in the case of cycling with brain injury or damage, a specially designed and equipped tricycle, cycling truly can be life changing.