From Dr. Kalmer

Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death in the United States and the number one cause of adult disability. Over 3 million Americans are dealing with stroke-related issues. A stroke results from disruption in blood flow to the brain either by a clot or hemorrhage. Depending on the area of the brain affected, a person can experience weakness, incoordination, speech difficulties, swallowing difficulties, confusion, loss of balance, and physical deficits. Medical rehabilitation after a stroke is paramount in improving function and preventing further disability. A rehabilitation hospital like HealthSouth offers the intensity of therapy and the technological advances necessary to achieve maximal functional improvements. Specialized equipment such as the Auto Ambulator is unique to HealthSouth and is a weighted support treadmill training device that enables patients that are hemiplegic or paraplegic to be upright and simulate a normal gait pattern. Other technology opportunities include the Bioness for upper and lower extremity support and range of motion. Smartstep therapy to work on balance and gait, and vital stim therapy to improve swallowing. An inpatient rehabilitation program is delivered by a dedicated team of physicians specializing in rehabilitation medicine, physical, occupational and speech therapists, rehabilitation nurses, psychologists, and case managers.