LCH offers inpatient therapy services for children and teens with functional deficits requiring two or more types of therapy. Examples of children who may qualify for our services include those with spinal cord injury, brain injury, other acute neurological problems, orthopaedic injury and amputation. Other children who may qualify for our services include premature infants with neurological deficits, patients post cardiovascular surgical procedures and patients recovering from chemotherapy or other oncology related procedures. Treatment can begin when all medical problems are under control and a pediatric physiatrist has determined that the child is ready for these specialized services.

Inpatient rehabilitative specialties include, but are not limited to, pediatric rehabilitative medicine, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, recreational therapy, cognitive education, psychology and social work.

Inpatient services include:

• Evaluation and treatment by members of pediatric team
• Seating and positioning evaluation and implementation
• Swallowing evaluations
• Nurses specializing in rehabilitative services
• Weekly patient planning conference
• Splinting and casting
• Group treatment to aid in socialization
• Therapeutic electrical stimulation
• Psychological services
• Animal-assisted therapy
• Community re-entry
• Recommendations for equipment/home modifications
• School transition
• Family conferences
• Family education/training

Overview of LCH Rehabilitation Services

• Therapists and staff with specialized training in the areas of spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries create individualized goals and treatment plans utilizing high tech equipment to maximize independence and function.
• The unit has state-of-the-art equipment in a variety of different treatment spaces available to address mobility, self-care and cognitive skills. These spaces are designed to help children recover as quickly as possible. In the therapy gym, physical and occupational therapists work with children on mobility, strengthening, fine motor skills and activities of daily living. A multi-sensory room, attached to the gym, is a space designed to stimulate senses and neurological responses. Down the hall is the classroom where the cognitive education specialist works with children on what they need for a successful return to school.
• The unit houses two therapeutic recreation rooms, one for younger children and one for teens, where play is aimed toward rehabilitative goals. The speech therapy space includes an observation room where parents can observe children at work without disruption.
• The interdisciplinary team works together to provide care and monitor progress. The team meets weekly to review each child's progress and evaluate length of stay.
• At Levine Children's Hospital, a child's family is a key part of the treatment team. Parents are encouraged to ask questions, meet with team members and participate in their child's care throughout the program. Parents are provided with training and information to help them understand and contribute to their child's recovery and success at home.