Meaningful goals
Useful goals are concrete and functional: walking a certain distance, transferring more safely, using a hand more effectively, returning to study or resuming work.
Recovery
Rehabilitation focused on everyday life
Rehabilitation is more than exercises or a single procedure. Its purpose is to improve function, independence and participation in the activities that matter to a person.
Progress without racing
Recovery rarely follows a straight line. Difficult periods may require more rest, and activity should increase gradually and appropriately.
A team approach
Depending on need, a rehabilitation team may include a doctor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, speech therapist, prosthetist, nurse and social worker.
New or sharply worsening pain, sudden weakness, severe shortness of breath, loss of consciousness or other acute symptoms require medical assessment.