Acquired Brain Injuries and Spinal Cord Injuries in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Living with an acquired brain injury (ABI) or spinal cord injury can mean major changes for you and your family. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, you have access to high-quality rehabilitation and support through local hospitals, clinics, and community resources—but recovery often takes time, patience, and ongoing care.

This guide explains what ABIs and spinal cord injuries are, common symptoms, treatment options, and where to find help in the Grand Rapids area.

What Is an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?

An acquired brain injury is damage to the brain that occurs after birth and is not related to a congenital or degenerative condition. In West Michigan, ABIs are commonly caused by:

  • Stroke
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI) from car crashes, falls, or sports injuries
  • Brain tumors
  • Infections or inflammation
  • Lack of oxygen (for example, after cardiac arrest)
  • Alcohol-related brain impairment

Common Symptoms of ABI

Symptoms vary widely from person to person, but may include:

  • Increased fatigue – both mental and physical
  • Changes in thinking and memory – trouble concentrating, planning, or problem-solving
  • Physical changes – weakness, balance problems, headaches, dizziness
  • Behavior and personality changes – irritability, impulsivity, mood swings
  • Emotional changes – anxiety, depression, frustration
  • Sensory changes – changes in vision, hearing, taste, smell, or touch

Cold, icy winters in Grand Rapids can increase fall risk, especially for people with balance or mobility issues after an ABI. Talk with your care team about winter safety and fall prevention.

What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury occurs when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This can be caused by:

  • Motor vehicle crashes (common on Michigan’s winter roads)
  • Falls on ice or from heights
  • Sports or recreational injuries
  • Acts of violence
  • Certain medical conditions or infections

Paraplegia and Quadriplegia

The effects of a spinal cord injury depend on where the injury occurs and how severe it is:

  • Paraplegia – affects movement and sensation in the legs and lower body
  • Quadriplegia (tetraplegia) – affects movement and sensation in the arms, legs, and trunk

You may need to adjust to using a wheelchair or adaptive equipment and to changes in bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

Common Health Issues After Spinal Cord Injury

People with spinal cord injuries may be at higher risk for:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Kidney stones
  • Pressure sores (pressure injuries)
  • Muscle spasms
  • Respiratory infections, especially during Michigan’s cold and flu season

Regular follow-up with specialists in Grand Rapids can help prevent and manage these complications.

Stroke Recovery in Grand Rapids

Stroke is one of the most common causes of acquired brain injury in Michigan. Fast treatment is critical to reduce brain damage and improve recovery.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms (BE FAST)

Get emergency help immediately (call 911) if you notice:

  • B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
  • E – Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • F – Face: Face drooping on one side
  • A – Arms: Arm weakness or numbness, usually on one side
  • S – Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding
  • T – Time: Time to call 911 right away

In Grand Rapids, emergency stroke care is available at:

  • Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) Butterworth Hospital – certified stroke center
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids – stroke care services
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health – stroke and neuro services

Early treatment can help reduce the severity of an acquired brain injury caused by stroke.

Diagnosis of ABI and Spinal Cord Injury

To diagnose and assess the extent of brain or spinal cord damage, your healthcare team may use:

  • X-rays – to look at bones and alignment
  • CT scans (computed tomography) – to quickly detect bleeding, fractures, or swelling
  • MRI scans (magnetic resonance imaging) – to see detailed images of the brain and spinal cord
  • Neurological exams – to check strength, reflexes, sensation, balance, and thinking skills

In some cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure, remove a tumor, stabilize the spine, or repair blood vessels.

Recovery depends on:

  • The location and extent of the injury
  • Your age and overall health
  • How quickly you received first aid and emergency care
  • The quality and intensity of rehabilitation

Rehabilitation in Grand Rapids, MI

Rehabilitation is a long-term process that helps you regain as much independence and function as possible. In Grand Rapids, rehabilitation services for ABI and spinal cord injuries are available through:

  • Corewell Health Rehabilitation (Spectrum Health) – inpatient and outpatient neurorehabilitation
  • Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital – nationally recognized for brain injury and spinal cord injury rehab
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids Rehab Services – physical, occupational, and speech therapy
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health – rehabilitation and pain management services

Types of Therapy You May Receive

  • Physiotherapy (physical therapy) – to improve strength, balance, mobility, and endurance
  • Occupational therapy – to help with daily activities like dressing, cooking, and using adaptive equipment
  • Speech-language therapy – to address speech, swallowing, and communication challenges
  • Neuropsychology – to help with memory, thinking skills, mood, and behavior changes
  • Recreational therapy – to support return to hobbies, sports, and community activities

Many people in Grand Rapids with ABIs or spinal cord injuries return to:

  • Work or school (sometimes with accommodations)
  • Recreational activities adapted to their abilities
  • Social and family life
  • Parenting and relationships

They may need to do these things differently, but with the right support, a meaningful and active life is still possible.

Conditions That Can Cause or Complicate ABI

Several neurological and medical conditions can lead to or worsen acquired brain injuries:

Brain Tumor

  • Abnormal growth of cells in the brain
  • Symptoms depend on the tumor’s location
  • A growing tumor and swelling can press on brain tissue, causing headaches, seizures, or changes in thinking or personality

Hydrocephalus

  • Abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s cavities (ventricles)
  • Can cause headaches, balance problems, confusion, and vision changes
  • Untreated, it can lead to brain damage or death

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

  • A chronic condition where the immune system attacks the central nervous system
  • Can lead to weakness, vision problems, and cognitive changes

Subdural Hematoma

  • Blood clot under one of the protective layers of the brain, often after a head injury (such as a fall on ice)
  • Symptoms may include severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, and vision problems

Aneurysm

  • An abnormal bulge in the wall of a blood vessel, often in the brain or aorta
  • If a brain aneurysm ruptures, it can cause a life-threatening stroke within minutes
  • Brain damage from long-term alcohol misuse
  • Can cause problems with memory, thinking, and coordination

Parkinson’s Disease

  • A progressive neurological condition that affects movement
  • Can also cause cognitive and mood changes
  • Parkinson’s disease is not contagious and is not directly fatal, but complications can be serious

Coma

  • A deep state of unconsciousness
  • Occurs when the brain’s arousal system or communication pathways are severely impaired

Emotional and Family Impact

The consequences of an acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury can be far-reaching. It is normal for you and your family to feel:

  • Distressed or worried about the future
  • Overwhelmed by medical appointments and rehabilitation
  • Stressed by financial, work, and caregiving demands

ABIs and spinal cord injuries can affect:

  • Relationships and family roles
  • Social networks and friendships
  • Work and school
  • Recreation and community involvement

Coping as a Family or Caregiver

Caring for someone with an ABI or spinal cord injury can be both challenging and rewarding. Many families in Grand Rapids find that working through this together can strengthen their relationships and clarify what is most important.

It can help if family members:

  • Have accurate, reliable information about the injury and recovery
  • Understand that recovery is often slow and ongoing
  • Focus on strengths and daily achievements, not just limitations
  • Stay grounded in the present, instead of only worrying about the future
  • Make time for self-care, including sleep, exercise, and social support
  • Ask for help from healthcare providers, support groups, and community resources

Local Resources and Support in Grand Rapids, MI

You do not have to manage an acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury alone. Grand Rapids and Kent County offer a range of services and supports.

Medical and Rehabilitation Providers

  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) – Grand Rapids
    • Neurology, neurosurgery, stroke care, inpatient and outpatient rehab
  • Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
    • Comprehensive brain injury and spinal cord injury rehabilitation
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Neurology, stroke services, rehabilitation programs
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Spine center, neurology, rehabilitation and pain services

Public Health and Community Resources

  • Kent County Health Department
    • Public health information, vaccination, chronic disease management, and disability-related resources
  • Grand Rapids Public Health / City of Grand Rapids
    • Community health programs, accessibility and inclusion initiatives

Brain and Spinal Injury Support (Michigan & National)

  • Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI)
    • Education, support groups, and advocacy for people with brain injuries and their families
  • United Spinal Association & local chapters
    • Resources and peer support for people with spinal cord injuries
  • National Stroke Association / American Stroke Association
    • Information on stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery
  • Local support groups
    • Many Grand Rapids hospitals and rehab centers host support groups for stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury survivors and caregivers

Ask your neurologist, rehabilitation team, or primary care provider to connect you with local support groups and case management services.

Living With ABI or Spinal Cord Injury in West Michigan

Michigan’s climate and lifestyle bring specific considerations:

  • Winter safety: Ice and snow increase fall risk and can make wheelchair mobility more challenging. Talk with your therapist about winter equipment, traction devices, and home modifications.
  • Seasonal mood changes: Long, dark winters can worsen depression or fatigue. Ask your provider about mental health support, light therapy, and staying active indoors.
  • Outdoor recreation: West Michigan’s parks, trails, and accessible recreation programs can support physical and emotional health. Many local facilities offer adaptive sports and activities.

Except in extremely serious cases, many people with acquired brain injuries and spinal cord injuries are able to:

  • Work or return to school (with accommodations if needed)
  • Have relationships and families
  • Enjoy recreation and hobbies
  • Stay active in their communities

They may need to approach these activities differently, but independence and a fulfilling life are still possible.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department in Grand Rapids if you experience:

  • Sudden weakness, numbness, or paralysis
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding
  • Sudden severe headache, especially after a head injury
  • Loss of consciousness or seizure
  • Sudden vision changes or trouble walking
  • Signs of infection (fever, chills, confusion) after a brain or spinal cord injury

Early action can save brain and spinal cord function and may prevent long-term disability.

Key Points

  • The more severe the brain or spinal cord injury, the more significant the symptoms and loss of function are likely to be.
  • Diagnosis often involves imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI, plus neurological exams.
  • Rehabilitation in Grand Rapids—including physical, occupational, and speech therapy—plays a critical role in recovery.
  • Stroke warning signs must be recognized quickly; getting emergency care right away can reduce the severity of brain injury.
  • Local resources in Grand Rapids, including Corewell Health, Mary Free Bed, Trinity Health, Metro Health, and the Kent County Health Department, can provide ongoing medical care, rehab, and community support.

If you or a loved one in Grand Rapids is living with an acquired brain injury or spinal cord injury, talk with your primary care doctor, neurologist, or rehabilitation specialist about treatment options, community resources, and support services tailored to your needs.