How Medical Conditions Increase the Risk of Head Injuries

By Published On: 19/05/20252.7 min read
Home » Blog » Conditions & Risk Factors » How Medical Conditions Increase the Risk of Head Injuries

Table of Contents:

Medical conditions can increase the risk of head injuries by affecting physical abilities, balance, coordination, cognitive function and safety awareness. While protective measures and equipment are put in place, the brain is typically overlooked, meaning the most vulnerable and important organ in the body is left unprotected, and only acknowledged after injury.

What medical conditions increase the risk of head injuries?

  • Neurological disorders like epilepsy can lead to seizures that may result in falls or other accidents, increasing the likelihood of head trauma.
  • Balance disorders, such as vestibular disorders or inner ear problems, can lead to falls. Individuals with these conditions may be more prone to losing their balance and, subsequently, experiencing head injuries.

  • Dementia and cognitive impairments reduce an individual’s recognition of hazards, judging distances, or ability to react appropriately to prevent falls, putting them at greater risk for head injuries.
  • Muscle weakness and coordination issues from conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke can increase the risk of falls and head injuries.
  • Poor vision or visual processing disorders can make it challenging for individuals to navigate their environment safely, increasing the risk of tripping or falling.
  • Some medications (antihypertensives, sedatives, or medications for anxiety) can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion, which can contribute to falls and head injuries.
  • Older adults may have multiple medical conditions (e.g., osteoporosis, arthritis) that contribute to falls.
  • Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can lead to decreased attention and increased risk-taking behaviour, which may contribute to an increased risk of falls and head injuries.

How Halos® helps reduce the risk of head injuries

In every head impact there are rotational forces present; these cause the brain to rotate inside the skull. This is associated with the tearing of tiny blood vessels and brain cells, resulting, over time, in the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and the creation of damaging neuro-inflammation. Reducing rotational forces to the brain is essential to lower the risk of neuro-inflammation.

A concussion – also known as “mild” Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) – is caused by a single impact to the head which temporarily impairs brain function. This can cause both short- or long-term physical, cognitive, social, and emotional symptoms, which may lead to problems with memory, communication, personality changes, and sleep disruption, as well as depression.

Head impacts of lower force which do not cause a concussion are still serious. Sub-concussive (or non-concussive) impacts are highly frequent, and cause damage to the brain without any symptoms. Whilst an individual sub-concussion is asymptomatic, multiple sub-concussions suffered because of falls, unintentional movement or compulsive behaviour can adversely affect memory and behaviour, as well as the ability to focus, learn and think.

Rezon Halos® offers every wearer brain protection, by reducing rotational forces by up to 61% and concussion risk by 74% (based on independent testing).

Who is wearing Halos®?

Halos® is currently worn by adults and children with:

  • Epilepsy
  • Autism (head banging autism)
  • Balance issues
  • Co-ordination issues
  • Fainting
  • Head Drop Syndrome
  • Hydrocephalus
  • A required protection post-surgery
  • Seizures
  • A requirement from self-harm

Who is recommending Halos® for use?

Halos® is medically endorsed by brain experts, family doctors, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists around the world, and is recommended to safeguard individuals to mitigate their risks associated with head injuries.

Author: Judith McMinn

Image shows Judith Mcminn, Founder and CEO of Rezon, presenting about Rezon Halos® brain protection to an audience.
Judith McMinn is the CEO and Founder of Rezon. With an initial focus on protecting sports players and professional athletes from CTE (an early-onset dementia), our research found a significant and sizeable problem with brain injury for those with epilepsy, autism, balance issues, fainting, hydrocephalus, post-surgery recovery, seizures, and children on the spectrum. It is these stories of struggle and daily sacrifices, because of head impacts, that have shifted our focus. Halos® offers brain protection for every wearer.
Share This Article: