We care for patients with disabilities arising from acute and chronic pain, musculoskeletal problems, accidents, and neurologic disorders, including stroke and peripheral neuropathy, with the goal of restoring patients to maximum function. Doctors who specialize in this area are called a Physiatrist. Under the umbrella of Rehabilitation Medicine there are such disciplines as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy and Audiology.

Treatments Offered
At St. Vincent's, we evaluate and treat inpatients and provide outpatient services.

Our interdisciplinary team of professionals includes:
Physiatrist, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapist, Speech Language Pathologist and Audiologists, who  work closely with other professionals such as Dieticians, Social Workers and Case Management Nurses to plan individualized treatment plans and goals.  

Physiatry
This service includes Electrodiagnostic testing (EMG, NCV) and consultation for orthotics (braces, special shoes) and prosthetics (artificial limbs). We also see patients with back and neck pain, post-stroke, complications of diabetes and any disorder that affects their physical function.

Physical Therapy
Inpatient physical therapy is rendered at the bedside to improve early mobility for patients following orthopedic surgery, hand surgery, traumatic injuries, and accidents or debilitating medical conditions.

Our physical therapists help individuals reach maximum functional potential within the limits of their disability. After an initial assessment of abilities, they establish a treatment plan consisting of specific exercises, the use of hands-on or mechanical therapies (to relieve pain and increase strength, balance or movement) and functional training in goal-oriented tasks. They educate the patient about illness or injury and invite care partners to participate in the treatment program as appropriate. Depending on the particular condition, patients are taught how to move independently in bed, practice skills to regain the ability to walk and climb stairs or use a wheelchair to aid in mobility.

They also teach the safe use of equipment needed to maximize function like walkers, crutches, wheelchairs and transfer boards.

Occupational Therapy (OT)
This service is based on helping patients perform the meaningful activities of daily life (self-care skills, education, work or social interaction).  St Vincent's outpatient occupational therapy emphasizes restoration of mobility and strength following hand surgery for conditions like Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, tendon repair and fractures of the wrist and hand. For more information on our rehabilitation services or to make an appointment, please call 718-818-3163.