Rehabilitation - The Healing Process

The Orthopaedic Institute of Central Maine's team of professionals works with patients prior to admission to begin the process of a quick and safe recovery. During this process, special needs are assessed so appropriate professional support and patient education needs can be accommodated.

OICM therapists and nurses encourage active patient participation in the rehabilitation process, including both the inpatient phase and post discharge. Patients and families help the team understand the home environment and the anticipated support available to the patient at home. Therapists use this information to tailor plans for specific discharge situations. For many patients this involves such everyday living activities as navigate entrances and stairs in the home, getting in and out of cars, and managing self care in the bathroom.

The rehabilitation process gives each patient the opportunity to practice self-care under the guidance of a skilled team. This experience not only bolsters the patient's confidence, but enhances safety when the patient resumes activities of daily living at home.