Innovative rehab class supports recovery after brain injury
Specialist physiotherapy sessions at Moseley Hall Hospital are helping patients recovering from acquired brain injuries regain confidence, improve movement and take steps towards greater independence.
The weekly sessions have proved popular among patients in the hospital’s inpatient neurological rehabilitation unit (INRU), where they spend 90 minutes once a week being guided through a series of exercises on a ‘plinth’ - an adjustable physiotherapy treatment table - to a relaxing musical soundtrack.
Each patient is supported on a one-to-one basis by a member of the rehab team as specialist neurological physiotherapist Monica Devi guides them through a set of exercises designed to improve posture, balance and movement.
Monica has recently completed the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (APPI) clinical matwork certification thanks to a grant from a BCHC fund to support additional clinical learning .
The qualification focuses on key principles, including neuroplasticity, motor learning and postural control, helping patients safely relearn movement and improve core stability.
Monica completed 50 hours of supervised practice, delivering 30 hours of teaching to colleagues and successfully passed a final examination.
Now, other physiotherapists have been inspired to explore the model's potential - for example, to help rehabilitate patients following a stroke - and colleagues acting as patients' helpers during the sessions have benefited from the learning opportunity, including a physiotherapy apprentice student.
Alongside the physical benefits, the sessions have proved a popular, morale-boosting addition to the routine of the ward, as well as an enjoyable opportunity to interact with staff and other patients.
Monica explains the structure of the session: “Each patient has a one-to-one helper and I lead the group as well as going round, supporting and guiding.
“We start seated and end up in a lying down position, with a lovely few minutes at the end where we dim the lights and relax.
“It has great therapeutic benefits for neuro-rehab patients because it’s giving them ‘work’ to do but in a fun, supportive environment.
“Patients often ask me, ‘is there a class today?’ - as well as the therapeutic benefits, it breaks up their day and is a welcome opportunity to have a bit of fun on their rehab journey.”
Martine: ‘’The class is hard, but I know it’s good for me and I enjoy coming - I wouldn’t be doing it if it was easy!’’
Jeffrey: ‘’it’s a good class - I enjoy going and I find it beneficial; it helps me get up and walk.’’