Rehab Select Blog

Caring for a tracheostomy - an incision in the windpipe made to relieve an obstruction to breathing - can seem complex, perhaps even scary. The truth is that maintenance procedures are not complicated; but they are critical to keeping the tracheostomy opening and skin around it clean and free of infection. Individuals living with a tracheostomy are likely dealing with a number of medical problems that put them at risk for complications. Proper maintenance of the tube prevents further airway obstructions.

Rehab therapy is prescribed for millions of Americans each day as a way to help regain a normal life. Injuries, illnesses and even medical complications can cause a loss of muscle function and strength, making it hard to do everyday tasks, like walking or eating. After undergoing conventional treatment to prevent further complications, additional therapy is often necessary to further improve the condition and heal the muscles.

If you think this type of therapy is for you, here’s everything you need to know.

Occupational therapy (OT) was once known as the therapy that people who had been injured sought out in order to regain the ability to work. Over the years it has proven to be one of the most beneficial treatment options for those who wish to regain the ability to do everyday tasks such as reading and recalling information. Occupational therapists work with a variety of patients to provide the skills and information they need to meet these goals.

Here are five of the most common benefits of OT.

According to Home Therapy Solutions, more than 5 million Americans are living with congestive heart failure. Although heart failure is a progressive condition, it can be treated so that the symptoms do not worsen over time. The goal of treatment is to help those with the disease recover and avoid future complications.

Since heart failure is caused by underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol, treatments must be directed at managing these conditions. This may include medications, surgery and even therapy. One form of therapy that seems to work well for people with congestive heart failure is physical therapy.

When you look at the phrase “occupational therapy,”you may think of work therapy. While ‘occupation’does equate to working in some aspects of the therapy, it isn’t the sole goal of treatment. In fact, the word ‘occupation’in this form of treatment encompasses anything from typing to tying shoes –basically anything that’s part of a healthy and productive life.

People with certain conditions have trouble accomplishing these tasks and turn to their doctors for help. As a first course of treatment, the doctor may recommend therapy and medication combined, but if the condition stops a person from performing necessary activities, he may suggest occupational therapy.

Wound management is a critical part of the healing process, and education is key to successful wound care. Training caregivers in the proper care procedures, under the guidance of a health care professional should always be the first action taken. Dressings applied incorrectly will only prolong healing and could lead to further tissue damage.

More than 1.3 million people suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the disease is normally focused on 30 - to 60 year-olds, but as many as 300,000 children are diagnosed with a juvenile strain of the condition. Rheumatoid arthritis is incurable, so the aim of treatment is to reduce pain and slow its progression.

There are aggressive therapies that can be employed to treat the disease. Here is more about the condition and some of therapies that can help.

After suffering a serious illness or recovering from surgery or a debilitating injury, rehabilitation therapy may be prescribed to help you get to back to life; regain the ability to do normal activities.

Some rehabilitation therapies are prescribed for the short term, and others must be followed for life. There are many forms of rehab therapy, and one or a combination of several may be prescribed depending on the injury, illness or surgery.

Finding the right environment for your rehabilitation after an injury or illness can make all the difference in your recovery. From the very beginning, you’ll discover that rehabilitation involves hard work, determination and a willingness to learn. You’ll be out of bed and involved in therapy most of the day. You’ll be tired at night. With the help of trained, experienced professionals, you’ll participate in treatment activities that are among the most advanced in the rehab field, using innovative methods and state-of-the-art equipment.