Traumatic brain injury

Brain injury may be caused by head trauma from an accident or by various medical events such as infection, or temporary interruptions of the brain's oxygen supply. Our team of experts focus on the specific needs of individual patients. Patients and families are actively included in the goal-setting process. Family members are taught the steps in the patient’s recovery and their role in the care of the brain-injured patient. The team works closely with the Florida Brain and Spinal Cord Program to assure that all resources available to the patient are explored and appropriate aftercare is established.

Spinal cord injury

The spinal cord injury team excels in the care of the spinal cord injured patient teaching the patient and family how to meet the physical and emotional challenges affecting the family while the patient works toward regaining physical independence.

Stroke

The Shands Rehab Hospital team has treated more than 1,800 stroke patients. Comprehensive communication training and psychological therapy combined with physical and occupational therapies provide a program to return patients to their homes and communities.

Hip or knee replacement

The orthopaedic program focuses on rehabilitation after joint replacement and orthopaedic surgery. The rehabilitation team coordinates therapy to re-establish independent living and reduce the pain associated with musculoskeletal problems. Patients are trained in using assistive devices and in specific strengthening exercises. Patients learn new activities of daily living in a fully equipped, on-site apartment before being discharged.

Degenerative neurological conditions

Patients with a variety of neurological disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or Guillian Barre syndrome, benefit from the comprehensive care provided at Shands Rehab Hospital. Physicians lead a team of therapists and rehab nurses with expertise in the rehabilitation and prevention of complications from these conditions.

Amputation

Individuals with surgical or traumatic amputation of a limb are offered a comprehensive rehabilitation program to address their physical functioning, vocational, psychological and daily living needs. Exercise programs are directed toward preventing contractures and strengthening muscle groups. Specialists in orthotics and prosthetics work with the rehab team in restoring a patient's maximum mobility and limb functioning.

Burns

Patients with burns are treated both medically and in a comprehensive rehabilitation program designed to fit their unique needs. The rehab nurses and therapists work as a team with the physiciatrist to teach the patient how to function after this traumatic injury.