09/18/2026
Every recovery journey begins with a first step - and behind every step is a team of people who believe in what's possible.
This week is National Rehabilitation Week, and we wanted to share one of many rehab success stories at Winding Trails Post Acute.
MEET KRISTEN
When Kristen arrived at Winding Trails Post Acute, she had already endured months of medical complexity and uncertainty. After suffering a hemorrhagic stroke caused by a congenital aneurysm, she spent several months at the hospital before transitioning to our care. At admission, Kristen had complete paralysis on the left side of her body, and while some recovery was expected, it was unclear what her long-term mobility would look like—or whether she would walk or do stairs again.
From the outset, Winding Trails’ therapy team took a highly intentional and progressive approach to Kristen’s rehabilitation. Physical and occupational therapists collaborated closely to design a program centered on restoring movement, relearning function, and using the right tools at the right time. Therapists utilized neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to help reengage muscles on her affected side and support her neurological recovery.
As Kristen progressed, therapy focused on translating these gains into real-world function. Through skilled gait training and consistent intervention, she relearned how to walk using a hemi-walker and now ambulates 150–200 feet. She also returned to stair training—an achievement she once believed might not be possible again.
A key component of Kristen’s recovery was the integration of advanced technology into her therapy program. Using the MOTUS robotic arm, occupational therapy targeted motor control, muscle activation, and functional use of her upper extremity. These technologies allowed Kristen to actively engage in repetitive, task-specific movement, supporting neuroplasticity and increased independence with daily activities. The use of this innovative equipment reflects Winding Trails’ commitment to combining skilled clinical care with cutting-edge rehabilitation tools to optimize outcomes.
Throughout her stay, Kristen’s determination and positive attitude played an essential role in her progress, complementing the expertise and encouragement of the therapy team.
One of her personal goals is to return to hiking with her puppies—a goal her therapists believe remains attainable with continued motivation and ongoing support.
Recently, Kristen was discharged and returned home where she's doing well, spending time with family and building on the gains she has made. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “I’ve been really impressed with Winding Trails, especially the therapy team.”
Kristen’s journey highlights the impact of a dedicated therapy team, thoughtful clinical programming, and the use of advanced rehabilitation technology. We are proud of her progress and of the therapists who partnered with her to help turn uncertainty into meaningful recovery.
