September 21 – 27, 2014 was the week America observed National Rehabilitation across our great country. This celebration marked the success of individuals who have overcome serious illness or injury through rehabilitation. The celebration of National Rehabilitation brings recognition that we as a nation need to continue our mission to further the role of education and increasing awareness of the benefits and capabilities of people with disabilities. Participation in rehabilitation should occur as much as possible with motivation for ourselves and interactions within our communities.
The hope is that by bringing awareness to the celebration of rehabilitation, one day our country will have a society where there are no barriers for people with disabilities. Our efforts to increase awareness and maximize the effectiveness of rehabilitation will bring an increased awareness to the experience of life. Opportunities have increased for Millions of Americans with disabilities, helping those who are disabled live up to their fullest potential.
Rehabilitation is a highly specialized field that demands not only skill, but understanding and compassion from the care providers. There are several kinds of therapies; many patients need to have more than one type depending on their injury. Along with the physical needs there are emotional needs that are just as important, in ensuring long term recovery. Among the many types of therapy some of the more common include Speech/language, Physical, and Occupational therapies.
Speech/language therapy focuses on speaking and verbal communications. Memory, cognitive abilities, swallowing even exercising the muscles of the face factor into speech and language therapy. ALS often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease”, is a condition that is overlooked in many instances. Recently there was a very popular fundraiser drive called “The Ice Bucket Challenge”. This challenge raised over 100 Million dollars! There is no treatment or cure for ALS. Fundraisers boost awareness and generate funds to help find a cure.
Physical therapy focuses on regaining mobility, primarily to the lower part of the body after a traumatic injury or illness. Balance and the ability to walk long distances are major focal points of physical therapy. Learning to properly take advantage of walking aids such as walkers and artificial limbs are considered a significant part of the focus of physical therapy.
Occupational therapy focuses on problems with the upper body. Arms, shoulders, hands, fine and gross motor skills all fall into this category. Occupational therapy is necessary to successfully returning a person back to a productive and independent lifestyle. Being able to perform basic essential functions, ones that many would take for granted are imperative for recovery.
It's very important to have all types of therapy working closely together; this ensures that the patient gets the utmost care and education out of their treatment program. Having one therapy and not the others that are needed could possibly result in pro-longed recovery times and less of a change at a full recovery. Individuals participating in rehabilitation care programs have a much higher rate of long term recovery; they learn to adjust their lifestyles with their abilities. Most patients are able to return to work, school, and independent living.
Statistics show that medical rehabilitation improves lives and saves money. Aside from the money, we should see the humanitarian effort, making the patient’s care the FIRST PRIORITY. Realize that “this patient” will only be getting care “this time” and their results impact “their destiny”. They deserve the best EVERY time they are worked with. Every interaction matters. Every interaction is a chance to make a difference in this patient’s life… the chance for the very best recovery they ever thought they would have.
America stands to celebrate rehabilitation awareness. Our praise and thanks to therapists, administrative staff, educators and volunteers. For everything you do!
Citation:
www.Nationlarehab.org / celebrate national rehabilitation week
www.wikipedia / physical therapy
www.wikipedia/speech therapy
www.wikipedia/occupational therapy
I have been following this blog for a while now and i decided to share my story on how i survived and got a cure from ALS which would have maybe by now killed me. I was diagnosed with ALS in 2013 and it came with symptoms like overall weakness and i could not swallow and i ended up in a wheelchair though my doctor tried to put me on occupational therapy and physiotherapy but none seemed to give a relief as my condition grew worse in 6 months. I was lucky to have contacted Dr. Joseph and used his herbal medicine that treated me and gave me life, just 3 months of using the medicine which spans for 6 months positive improvements were visible, like my speech, all movements. A few years have gone by and i am still very much alive and healthy. Do not give up, you too can get a cure you can contact him directly on the contact below (josephalberteo @ gmail. com) for advise and effective solution. I pray you get cured soon.
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