A Path to Recovery: Traumatic Injury Rehab at Allegheny Valley Hospital

Getting the right care after a serious injury is an important part of healing. At AHN Allegheny Valley Hospital (AVH), our inpatient rehabilitation unit strives to provide treatment and support, and assist patients in their return to their community, and as much independence as possible.

What to expect at AVH’s rehab unit

Immediately after a traumatic injury, most patients first need care in the emergency room of the hospital. Once your health is stabilized, you’ll be moved to AVH’s rehab unit to continue your recovery.

During your first week in the rehab unit, your therapy team — including doctors, nurses, dieticians, and social workers — will track your progress and make a plan that’s right for you.

Your rehab plan may incorporate elements of therapy, technology, and pain management, which will guide your treatment and help you get home safely and as soon as possible.

“No two care plans are the same,” said Brandon Maharaj, AHN physical therapist. “Everyone’s recovery is different, so we focus on each person’s needs to help them get better in the best way for them.”

Therapy to rebuild your strength and skills

Many patients in AVH’s rehab unit are recovering from brain injuries or bone fractures that make it difficult to move and speak.

No matter your injury, our team will help you rebuild strength and regain important skills. Some of the therapies offered at AVH include:

• Occupational therapy to help you complete everyday tasks using your hands, fingers, elbows, and arms.
• Physical therapy to increase your muscle strength, flexibility, and movement.
• Speech therapy to relearn skills for speaking, understanding others, eating, and swallowing.
• Extra care from a team of certified brain injury specialists, when needed.

Technology to help with healing

Our therapists at AVH also use advanced technologies during treatment to make therapy more effective. Some examples include:

• Virtual reality (VR) to help with balance and movement.
• BITS^® (Bioness Integrated Therapy System), a touchscreen to help improve your vision and hearing.*
• Weight-bearing tools to help you move safely as you get stronger.

Pain management

The healing process can sometimes be painful, even when your body is getting better. AVH’s trauma rehab team works closely with the hospital’s medical team to help you manage pain during your recovery.

Your care plan may include:

• Simple stretches and exercises to reduce pain.
• Stress-reducing techniques that support both physical and mental health after trauma. 
• Medication when needed based on your symptoms.

Comprehensive training for caregivers

Recovery doesn’t end when a patient is discharged from the rehab unit at AVH. If you’re caring for a loved one, we want you to feel confident as you help them through recovery.

Through our STEPS (Support, Training, Education, Planning, Success) program, caregivers get the knowledge and guidance they need during every stage of recovery.

Supporting you on your recovery journey

Trauma recovery looks different for everyone, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this process.The rehab team at Allegheny Valley Hospital is here to support you in navigating life after an injury. Learn more about AHN’s rehab services on the hospital’s physical therapy page.