The UW Health Neurological Rehabilitation team is a leader in the restoration of function for individuals with stroke, traumatic brain injury (including concussion/post-concussion syndrome), spinal cord injury, brain and spinal cord neoplasms, degenerative diseases of the nervous system, oculomotor dysfunction, peripheral vestibular disorders, developmental disorders, and difficulties related to aging.

 

• Post-stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury

• Adult developmental disabilities

• Degenerative diseases and movement disorders (Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebellar disorders)

• Balance and falls prevention

• Splinting and bracing assessment
• Cognitive and executive function retraining
• Speech/fluency and oral motor function
• Language therapy and reading comprehension
• Gait analysis and training
• Constraint-induced therapy
• Vestibular dysfunction evaluation and rehabilitation
• Geriatric mobility and falls assessments
• Wheelchair seating/fitting assessments and mobility training
• Durable medical equipment evaluations
• Lower limb amputee rehabilitation
• LSVT BIG Therapy for Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders
• SPEAK OUT!, a program for individuals with Parkinson's and related neurologic disorders. This program is a specific therapy approach directed at strengthening the muscles used for speaking and to teach patients how to speak with intent and deliberation.

Technological Advantages

 

Our state-of-the-art equipment includes: 

• The Bertec Balance Advantage (next-generation, computerized dynamic posturography) is used to assess the influence of sensory inputs on standing balance and the individuals motor response to surface perturbations. 
• Our therapists use infrared video-oculography to eye movement and nystagmus recording for patients with central and peripheral vestibular disorders (disorders of the inner ear and brain that contribute to balance difficulties). 
• Our APDM Mobility Lab facilitates motion analysis using six synchronous, wireless accelerometers. 
• A Simi video-recorded gait analysis system evaluates walking, determines the effectiveness of orthotics and prosthetics, and provides feedback to patients regarding performance and progress. 
• Gait training is facilitated using body weight-supported treadmill training. 
• The Bioness L300 functional electrical stimulation device is available for assessment and treatment as an alternative to a leg brace for some patients with foot drop or leg weakness.
• Integration of digital media apps for education and training though use of a smart phone or tablet.

Education, Research and Outreach

 

Our Neurological Rehabilitation staff provides teaching support and clinical instruction for the physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech and language pathology programs at the University of Wisconsin, and the UW Hospital and Clinics and Meriter Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency Program. Staff are also involved in several physician residency training programs. Team members are regular presenters of continuing education and at educational sessions, platform presentations, and poster presentations at professional conferences.

 

Community outreach activities include speaking to local support groups, serving on local community task forces, and providing instruction in exercise classes for individuals with Parkinson's disease, as well as falls prevention.