Not Finding What You're Looking For?
DeMarcus’ Story: Finding Healing after Limb Loss through Art Therapy
DeMarcus P. came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab after his left foot was amputated following a work accident. Through intensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, he regained strength and learned to walk using a prosthetic leg. DeMarcus also discovered healing in our art therapy program — utilizing his creativity to process the frustration and emotional stress of his injury and recovery.
Patient Story
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.
Blog
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.
Blog
Research Spotlight: Cognitive Rehabilitation Improves Quality of Life for Patients with Long COVID Brain Fog
A recent study highlights the positive effects of cognitive rehabilitation in patients experiencing lingering cognitive difficulties, or “brain fog,” after experiencing COVID-19.
Blog
Nickolas’ Story: Healing through Education After Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Nickolas G., a physician, came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for intensive rehabilitation after becoming paralyzed by Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) — a rare disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves.
Patient Story
David’s Story: The Power of Possibility after Guillain-Barré Syndrome
One Saturday evening, David started to notice tingling in his feet. He assumed he had sat for too long in one position and expected it to fade by morning — but it didn’t. Instead, it spread and intensified throughout his body. He got himself to the emergency room — and collapsed at the front desk.
Patient Story
“I Can Do Hard Things”: Paityn’s Recovery from Guillain-Barré Syndrome at 14
After suddenly becoming paralyzed and diagnosed with a rare neurologic condition, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), 14-year-old Paityn C. came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.
Patient Story
Stroke Awareness Month: A Focus on Recovery
View our roundup of articles about stroke recovery and patient stories illustrating how intensive rehabilitation helped them return to the lives they love.
Blog
Celebrating 17 Years of Collaboration with Willis Tower
At Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Keystone Board meeting on Thursday, May 8, 2025, the hospital celebrated 17 years of the annual stair-climbing event, SkyRise Chicago. Attendees honored Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s longtime relationship with the Willis Tower and Skydeck Chicago, which is located on the skyscraper’s 103rd floor.
News
A Guide to Common Terms: Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
To help patients navigate their recovery, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a guide to terminology about Spinal Cord Injury (SCI).
Blog
Teen Patient’s Rehabilitation after Traumatic Brain Injury Featured in Wisconsin News Segment
Several months earlier, Brett experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a power-washing incident. Over the holidays, he continued his recovery at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, with his family at his side.
Patient Story
The Show Must Go On: The Performing Arts Medicine Program
What happens when a dancer feels a twinge as she lands her hundredth tour jeté of the week? Or, when an actor feels a tweak in his elbow after the big sword fight in Act III?
Fortunately, performing artists can seek a visit with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Performing Arts Medicine Program, a clinical practice tailored to diagnosing and treating the unique needs of those in artistic roles, including musicians, actors and dancers.
Fortunately, performing artists can seek a visit with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Performing Arts Medicine Program, a clinical practice tailored to diagnosing and treating the unique needs of those in artistic roles, including musicians, actors and dancers.
Blog