A decade ago, life after a stroke looked very different than it does today. Stroke remains the leading cause of disability in America and can cause significant loss in function, such as walking, reaching, grasping and communicating. New technology and applied research, however, are helping people regain abilities and independence that were once considered impossible.
The field of physical rehabilitation is advancing at an exciting pace. Many of the advancements made in recent years are designed to take advantage of the brain’s neuroplasticity – its amazing ability to compensate for injury using old and new connections to recover lost function. Emerging technologies include robotic walking retrainers, interactive virtual reality interfaces, and electrical stimulation among many others. A few examples include:
ZeroG™ is the world’s most advanced body weight support system for walking and balance retraining. The overhead track and harness system gives users the confidence to move without the fear of falling. The ZeroG can be used in conjunction with treadmills, stairs and other equipment.
Lokomat®Pro moves legs through the motions of walking on a treadmill, retraining the brain faster by relieving physical strain.
Armeo®Power provides support that automatically adapts to the user’s abilities and offers simultaneous therapy from the shoulder to the fingers. Game-like exercises allow for training in activities of daily living, while providing immediate performance feedback.
Learn about other exciting rehabilitation technology. These advanced tools, united with the clinical knowledge of rehabilitation experts, are a powerful force in helping people fight back against stroke. This unique combination can be found in the iWALK and iREACH Recovery Centers at Sheltering Arms.
The staff at Sheltering Arms has traveled far and wide to work closely with the pioneers of breakthrough rehab technologies and earn advanced training and certifications. They have developed care guidelines grounded in best practices and evidence-based treatment, continually sharing information to maximize the care and associated results for their patients. The outcome? People are learning to walk again, use their affected arms and hands again, and return to the activities they love.
Interestingly, recent research has also shown that many people have the potential to make improvements long after an illness or injury, such as stroke. Individuals who have reached plateaus with other therapies or have been living with debilitating conditions for years may have new hope for recovering movement and physical abilities. It’s important to note, however, that early intervention typically produces the quickest and best results.
Visit www.shelteringarms.com or call (877) 56-REHAB for more information about the care and technology offered at the iWALK and iREACH Recovery Centers, or to request an evaluation.
Sheltering Arms Physical Rehabilitation Centers offer a network of comprehensive rehabilitation and support services in Central Virginia.
