• A physiatrist, an M.D. who specializes in physical and rehabilitative medicine, will direct your rehabilitation program. Riverside offers the only rehab facilities on the Peninsula with a physiatrist-directed program.
• Early in recovery, improving your range of motion is critical. The rehabilitation center program is designed to increase your strength and range of motion during your stay.
• You'll have the benefit of working with your physical therapist several times a day compared to two or three times a week with home or outpatient care.
• The centers are outfitted with special equipment to increase your range of motion and strength. Your physical therapist will work with you on passive and active range-of-motion and strengthening exercises several times a day.
• As you become increasingly mobile, you'll learn to navigate everyday living without injuring your new joint, which can ease the frustration of recovery.
• You will continue to be closely monitored by the medical staff.  
• Your physician or surgeon will be informed of your progress.

• A physiatrist is a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation.  Riverside Rehabilitation Centers are the only centers on the Peninsula with physiatrist directed programs.
• Our rehabilitation nurses provide individual nursing care and reinforce the skills learned in therapy.
• The physical therapist helps gain you independence by increasing your strength and mobility including getting in and out of a bed and walking using a cane or crutches, and going up and down stairs.
• The occupational therapist helps you re-learn daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, cooking or cleaning to help you become independent during your recovery.  He or she will advise you on occupational health tools you can use once you go home.

• Medical history
• Exercise history
• Balance
• Strength
• Range of motion or flexibility
• Functional limitations
• Recovery goals

Based on the assessment of your condition, overall health, and exercise history, our staff will develop an individualized plan that helps you become mobile and independent. 

Although each patient is different and progress depends on overall health and motivation, before leaving the center, you should be able to:

• Get in and out of bed by yourself.
• Take yourself to the bathroom without help.
• Walk safely without a walker or cane.
• Move yourself in and out of the car or the shower without injuring yourself. Sit in and get up from chairs and couches.
• Become independent again by performing the tasks of daily living such as cooking, bathing or dressing on your own.
• Manage steps at home.
• Learn to use adaptive equipment such as a reaching tool or a sock aide.

• You will want to pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothing such as sweat suits, for your workouts.
• Family members are welcomed. They are encouraged to visit and assist in your rehabilitation program.

Surveys have consistently shown that our departing rehabilitation patients feel that they were able to meet their recovery goals with us and, if the need arises, would return to one of our centers in the future. Ask your doctor or surgeon if a rehabilitation center is the right choice for you.