Stroke
Learn about stroke and whats
involved in stroke rehabilitation
What is stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is blocked by a clot. When this happens, part of the brain cannot get the oxygen it needs and may be damaged.
It's important to recognize the warning signs and getting medical attention immediately. Stroke warning signs include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, trouble with vision or difficulty speaking. If any of these signs are present, call 911.
A stroke can result in difficulty moving, performing daily tasks and talking or comprehending. They type and extent of the difficulties depends on the size and location of the stroke.
Why choose inpatient rehabilitation for stroke recovery
We know the effects of a stroke are as unique as each of our patients, and that many conditions experienced after a stroke may improve with time and specialized rehabilitation. Stroke rehabilitation is designed to help people adjust to and treat the mental and physical effects of stroke, with the goal of regaining their greatest level of independence
At Encompass Health, we implement a personalized treatment plan for each patient, communicating and collaborating across disciplines including therapists, nurses, physicians, case managers, dietitians and more. We deliver care that adapts to meet a patient’s specific needs and base their care plan on their unique goals.
Choosing to enter a stroke rehabilitation program can help patients reconnect with real-life skills in real-world settings.
When should stroke rehabilitation begin?
The quicker you start rehabilitation, the better chance you have of recovery. Studies have shown there is increased likelihood of regaining the ability to walk unassisted the earlier rehabilitation begins. According to the 2016 adult stroke rehabilitation guidelines released by the American Heart Association, whenever possible stroke patients should be treated at an inpatient rehabilitation facility. Learn more about our advanced technologies and stroke rehabilitation specialists here.
Features of our stroke program include:
• State-of-the-art technologies and treatments• An interdisciplinary approach to patient care with weekly team meetings to assess patient progress
• A hospital level of care that includes around the clock nursing care and frequent physician visits
• Proven best practices and therapeutic techniques
What to expect during inpatient rehabilitation
- Round circular icon with a hospital icon in the center surround by the following icons: diet and nutrition, swallowing/eating, memory, balance, walking, communication, dressing, standing/getting out of bed, driving, medication management, daily errands, and other activities of daily living.
At an inpatient rehabilitation hospital, you'll receive at least three hours of therapy five days a week to help you regain your independence after a life changing injury or illness.
When you arrive at our hospital, your team of therapists will work with you to create an individualized care plan. We combine speech, occupational therapy and physical therapy based on your unique needs to help you achieve your goals.
Our approach to therapy goes beyond the basics and includes activities of daily living such as grooming, dressing, cooking, leisure activities and more, helping you get back to what matters most.
Together to End Stroke
In 2019, Encompass Health embarked on a three-year strategic national sponsorship of the American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke initiative. By working together, we can show how stroke is treatable, beatable and preventable.
According to the 2016 adult stroke rehabilitation guidelines released by the American Heart Association, whenever possible, stroke patients should be treated at an in-patient rehabilitation facility rather than a skilled nursing facility.
"While at an in-patient rehabilitation facility, a patient participates in at least three hours of rehabilitation a day from physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Nurses are continuously available and doctors typically visit daily. An in-patient rehabilitation facility may be a free-standing facility or a separate unit of a hospital." (SOURCE: AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION, INC.)
