Advanced Neurological Rehabilitation Treatment and Support Resources

Physical therapy deals with types of neurological injuries that have resulted in mobility challenges. The exercises and techniques of physical therapy aim to improve impairment in the patient’s range of motion, balance, gait, coordination, strength, and pain. The practice of physical therapy involves physical therapists working alongside other health professionals, such as nurses, doctors, and occupational therapists, with the common goal of helping the patient recover or improve mobility. At Sheba, in addition to more classic forms of physical therapy, our neuro rehabilitation center offers treatment options such as hydrotherapy and virtual reality therapy.

Occupational therapy aims to help patients relearn everyday tasks, regain independence and restore functionality. These routine tasks include activities such as dressing, bathing, cooking, and eating. Occupational therapists also complete the necessary assessments for assistive devices such as canes, walkers, and extra measures that help patients feel safe and comfortable in their homes. Advanced neurological rehabilitation can take time, from a few months to even years, and occupational therapy can continue to support the patient for many years post-injury.

Speech therapy helps patients who experience language, speech, voice, cognition, and swallowing difficulties due to neurological conditions. Depending on the problem, speech therapy can help in a variety of ways. Some speech treatment plans aim to strengthen oral muscles to regain control over the voice or swallowing, as well as breathing exercises. Other plans include treatment that helps with vocalizations, articulations, punctuation, and relearning how to communicate with others. At Sheba’s Neurorehabilitation Center, speech therapy involves advanced technologies that help patients regain speech at an accelerated rate following a stroke or injury.

In many instances of neurological damage, patients experience emotional, behavioral, and cognitive changes that limit their ability to work, form relationships, and enjoy other meaningful activities. Neuropsychology focuses on the relationship between the brain and behavior and aims to improve cognitive, emotional, and psychosocial functioning. Neuropsychologists may also work with patients who require extra assistance adjusting to the changes in their physical capabilities, helping them develop coping skills and improving their overall wellbeing.

Social services, provided by trained medical social workers, are another critical component of neurological rehabilitation, as they address the social, emotional, interpersonal, occupational, and practical aspects of recovery. These services include assisting patients and their families in coping with the disruption to their course of life due to the injury.
At Sheba, this support is given to patients from the moment of hospitalization until discharge.