For many people who have experienced an injury, serious health event, or surgery, one of the most critical paths to recovery is through rehabilitation. The Center for Rehabilitation Medicine at WMCHealth provides comprehensive care to patients of all ages with a wide range of health concerns, from routine to complex. Our doctors specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R), and the services offered at our rehabilitation center allow patients to gain mobility and independence.
What Is Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation?
PM&R services help restore and improve functional ability. This field of medicine is unique since its goal is not to cure a health issue but to maximize a patient’s quality of life. If you have been in the hospital due to a condition or injury that interferes with your day-to-day activities, you may be a candidate for PM&R treatment.
Our Approach to PM&R
- Physiatrists
- Social workers
- Physical therapists
- Neuropsychologist
- Rehabilitation nurses
- Respiratory therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Speech-language pathologists
Type of Rehabilitation
The Center for Rehabilitation Medicine at WMCHealth offers two different rehabilitation programs.
Inpatient Services
Our inpatient provide offer comprehensive care to those recovering from:
- Stroke
- Brain injury
- Amputation
- Spinal cord injury
- Other acute or chronic conditions
Our inpatient team focuses on maximizing functional recovery and independence with the goal of the patient returning home. Our acute intensive rehabilitation program is designed to get you stronger and prepare you for daily activities and independence.
Outpatient Services
Our outpatient services offer comprehensive evaluation and rehabilitation management for those who are experiencing conditions including:
- Arthritis
- Balance impairments
- Sports-related injuries
- Acute and chronic pain
- Mild stroke or brain injury
- Tendon or ligament injuries
Outpatient services may also benefit those who recently have undergone a surgical procedure, such as a joint replacement.
What Type of Rehabilitation Services Do I Need?
Acute Care
The type of rehabilitation you need will depend on your condition and overall health. After a hospitalization, you may have difficulty performing basic tasks, such as walking and self-care. If you are not ready to return home directly, the acute inpatient rehabilitation program may be best for you. This will allow you to get stronger. It will also allow time for arrangements to be made for follow-up services, outpatient therapies, and any equipment needs you might have, such as a wheelchair or tub bench.
Subacute Care
If your condition requires a prolonged stay, you will be in a skilled nursing facility for subacute rehabilitation. This type of rehabilitation is less intensive and usually transitions patients to a long-term care facility when discharged.
Outpatient
If you can generally function on your own, outpatient services may be all you need. You should be able to perform basic tasks such as:
- Getting out of bed
- Performing self-care activities such as bathing
- Managing basic everyday activities such as getting dressed
How Long Will I Need Rehabilitation?
Your treatment plan will depend on your condition, its severity, and your overall health. Generally, the average stay in an acute inpatient program is approximately two weeks but could range from one to four weeks. The subacute inpatient program stay is usually longer. It may be up to 100 days.
Outpatient programs can last several weeks to several months, depending on your condition and how well you are making progress.
At WMCHealth, our PM&R doctors are experts in providing this type of care and will work closely with you to design the best treatment plan for your needs.