AbilityLab Blog
See the latest news, updates and patient stories from Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Ranked No. 1 by U.S. News & World Report for 34th Consecutive Year
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab again has been recognized as the national leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation, topping the U.S. News & World Report list for the 34th consecutive year. It remains the only hospital of any kind to hold this distinction.
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Research Spotlight: Cognitive Rehabilitation Improves Quality of Life for Patients with Long COVID Brain Fog
A recent study published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation — and led by Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in collaboration with Northwestern Medicine — highlights the positive effects of cognitive rehabilitation in patients experiencing lingering cognitive difficulties, or “brain fog,” after experiencing COVID-19.
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A Day in the Life: Jessica Smit, Certified Prosthetist Orthotist
In recognition of Limb Loss Awareness Month this April, follow a day in the life of Jessica Smit, one of our certified prosthetist orthotists (CPOs). She shares insight into her busy day as a CPO — from fitting patients for prosthetic limbs to making adjustments for comfort and seeing some take their first steps with a prosthetic leg.
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Creating an Adjustable Prosthesis for Aquatic Therapy
In 2023, Shenan set out to find a solution for an adjustable prosthesis that would allow patients with limb loss to participate in aquatic therapy safely and easily.
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Ask the Expert: Bridget Conniff, OT, on Occupational Therapy
Bridget shares her experiences as an OT and how she works with those in inpatient rehabilitation, helping them regain function and independence.
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Pain Management for Thumb Arthritis
Carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis — also known as thumb arthritis — is a common condition that affects the CMC joint, which is located at the base of the thumb (where it connects with the wrist). This type of arthritis can occur from overuse, repetitive tight gripping and pinching, age or injury to the joint. It can cause severe pain and make it difficult to complete easy daily tasks, like opening a jar or turning a doorknob.
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Schroth Method for Scoliosis: A Path to Better Spinal Health
One option for the treatment of scoliosis is the Schroth method, an exercise-based physical therapy approach. This method is available on an outpatient basis at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for patients who have scoliosis, as well as kyphosis — another spinal condition marked by an excessive rounding of the upper back.
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Five Tips for Managing Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow can be frustrating and painful but, with the right approach— and even, possibly, outpatient occupational therapy — recovery is possible. Here are a few easy tips to effectively reduce pain and promote healing:
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Ask the Expert: Traumatic Brain Injury with Amy Basken, Patient Parent & Caregiver
To recognize Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Awareness Month, we invited patient parent and caregiver Amy Basken to answer audience questions for our monthly “Ask the Expert” series. After her son, Matthew, experienced a TBI, he came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for rehabilitation. Now, three years later, Amy shares her experiences and reflections as the mother of a person living with a TBI.
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The Benefits of Recreation Therapy in Inpatient Rehabilitation
After a life-changing injury or illness, many people choose to continue their recovery in an inpatient rehabilitation hospital like Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — to restore function, recover lost abilities and regain independence.
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Ask the Expert: Monica Rho, MD, on Sports Medicine
The latest featured expert is Monica Rho, MD, the Reva and David Logan Section Chief of Musculoskeletal Medicine at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Dr. Rho also is the lead team physician for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team — and was part of the staff that helped the players win the gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
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Treating Swallowing Disorders through Swallow Therapy
Learn how we help patients with GBS improve safety, efficiency and comfort with swallowing.
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Guillain-Barré Syndrome: Treatment & Rehabilitation
Read more about the causes and symptoms of GBS — and the important role of rehabilitation in your recovery.
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