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We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. And, sometimes, holding up the head can feel like a heavy task. In a neutral or upright position, the average adult head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds, according to the journal Surgical Technology International. However, there are instances when the head can seem heavier than usual. Sometimes, this is because of the mechanics of the neck and spine.

Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is an injury to the brain caused by a bump or hit to the head. It is a common injury in children and can cause lasting symptoms and disabilities. There are different causes of TBI, such as car accidents, falls, or football tackles. Fortunately, there are ways we can reduce TBI by making safe choices, such as buckling our seatbelts and wearing helmets while playing sports. Before we dive into talking about brain injury, we want to introduce something scientists call the Monroe-Kellie Doctrine, which is important for understanding how traumatic brain injury TBI happens.

Minor head injuries are common in people of all ages and rarely result in any permanent brain damage. If your child experiences a knock, bump or blow to the head, sit them down, comfort them, and make sure they rest. You can hold a cold compress to their head — try a bag of ice or frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel.