Innovative Therapies

Healing Art

Our Healing Arts program can be seen inside the hospital and out - in patient rooms, therapy areas, healing gardens and sculpture area.

Using poetry, art, movement, music
and clay, healing arts give patients a way to express feelings and help with adjusting to changes in their lives.

Horticulture

Many patients enjoy the therapeutic benefit of working with plants - both inside the hospital and outside in our healing gardens. Patients have the opportunity to work with soil, seeds and plants, and to prune, water, smell and taste the fruits of their labor.

Tongue touch keyboard (TTK)

Tongue touch keyboard (TTK) allows patients with high level (C1-C3) tetraplegia (quadriplegia) to access environmental control, interact with a computer and drive their wheel chair independently. All of this is controlled by nine tiny buttons which are located on a retainer that is placed into the users mouth and pushed by the tongue.

Environmental control

Environmental control devices provide an opportunity for individuals to be more independent at home. These devices allow a person to access items such as light switches, television controls and the telephone. They can be activated by a simple switch or voice activation software.

Speech generating devices

A speech generating device, otherwise known as an augmentative device, allows a person to communicate verbally when speaking is not an option. Using a specialized computer, thoughts and ideas are turned into spoken words by touching buttons on a screen or typing on a keyboard. 

Computer and internet access

Our Assistive Technology therapists help find the best way for an individual to access a computer. Once the best equipment is determined, an individual can maximize their independence through word processing, surfing the internet or playing a game online.

Therapeutic gaming

Systems like the Wii and games like Rock Band and Dance Dance Revolution are used to address therapy goals during treatment sessions. These games provide a way for patients to work on goals of strength, coordination, balance, endurance and cognition. Using therapeutic gaming in a relaxed setting can also help to decrease anxiety.

Parkinson's exercise class

In our state-of-the-art exercise room, we offer a 50-minute circuit training program that consists of:

• Stretching
• Cardiovascular work
• Strengthening
• Balance and coordination activities

Programs can be tailored to meet the needs of clients. The class provides an opportunity for peer support. Clients attend three times per week, Monday through Friday.

A referral from a patient's primary physician is needed to begin. Contact the Capistrant Parkinson’s Center at 651-232-2098 for more information.

Body weight supported gait training

Using a parachute-like harness and treadmill, our body weight supported gait training device allows patients to enhance their walking skills. With the help of a therapist, a patient can walk safely, with support, at a more normal pace. Using this technique, patients can work on many components of their gait, including stride length, stride symmetry and ankle function.

Lymphedema therapy

Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the space between cells, generally in an extremity.

Lymphedema causes chronic inflammation, stiffness, increased risk of infection and tissue damage. 

Our Certified Lymphedema Therapist uses manual lymph drainage, special exercises and compression bandages and garments to treat the condition. Our lymphedema program decreases the risk of infection, fibrous tissue, interstitial pressure and lymph fluid. It also helps to increase movement and  elevate mood.

For more information, call the Physical Medicine Department at
651-232-2128.

Vital stimulation

Vitalstim™ is a safe, painless treatment for patients who have been diagnosed with dysphasia due to Parkinson's disease, stroke or other causes.

Using electrical stimulation, a Certified Vitalstim™ Therapist performs a series of treatments to re-educate the muscles responsible for swallowing. 

A physician's referral is required for treatment. For more information, call the Physical Medicine department at 651-232-2128.