Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Indiana

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Mishawaka, IN
Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Indiana

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At Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Indiana, we provide specialized inpatient and outpatient rehabilitative services to patients recovering from a serious injury or illness.

07/27/2026

Returning to meaningful activities is an important part of recovery after a spinal cord injury.
Whether it's spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, participating in adaptive sports, volunteering, or returning to work, staying engaged in activities that provide purpose can support overall well-being and quality of life.
Occupational therapy can help support this transition by modifying tasks, recommending adaptive equipment, and developing individualized strategies to promote independence. Therapists work with each patient on their specific goals to adapt activities and environments so they can participate more fully in daily life. Therapists also can teach energy conservation techniques to help individuals prioritize activities and manage fatigue.

07/20/2026

Skin health is an important part of living with a spinal cord injury that requires daily attention.
Changes in sensation can make it difficult to notice pressure, irritation, or injury. Reduced mobility also can lead to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body, which decreases blood flow and increases the risk of skin breakdown. Without proper prevention, pressure injuries can develop and lead to serious complications.
To help protect your skin:
• Keep your skin dry clean and dry
• Perform daily skin checks
• Change positions regularly as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Protect any bony areas with pillows or cushions
• Maintain good nutrition and hydration
• Report any redness or skin changes to your healthcare provider

07/13/2026

Every spinal cord injury is unique.
The effects of a spinal cord injury depend on the level and severity of the injury. The level of the injury along the spinal cord dictates which body parts may be affected. Injuries higher up on the cervical spine typically result in more extensive paralysis, while lower injuries tend to affect the trunk and legs.
Some individuals may experience changes in movement, sensation or both. Others may retain varying degrees of function below the level of injury. Spinal cord injuries are broadly categorized as complete or incomplete. Complete injuries include a total loss of motor and sensory functions below the injury site. Incomplete injuries involve some remaining function below the level of the injury.

Because no two spinal cord injuries are exactly alike, rehabilitation plans are tailored to each person's unique needs, goals, and abilities to help maximize independence and quality of life.

07/06/2026

A spinal cord injury can affect the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is the part of the body that controls involuntary functions like blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and digestion. Because communication between the brain and parts of the body can be disrupted below the injury, it can create health challenges and complications.
Some common autonomic nervous system (ANS) complications include cardiovascular instability, such as significant drops in blood pressure or an abnormally slow heart rate. Another serious complication is autonomic dysreflexia, a sudden and potentially dangerous spike in blood pressure. Temperature dysregulation also may occur due to impaired sweating and reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Bowel or bladder dysfunction also can result from disrupted autonomic control.
Rehabilitation helps individuals learn how to recognize changes in their bodies, prevent complications, and safely manage daily activities. Education, therapy, and support are key components of maximizing independence and quality of life.

07/04/2026

Happy Semiquincentennial, USA! Two Hundred Fifty looks good on you!

06/29/2026

By 2030, it’s projected that more than 70 million Americans will be 65 years or older, and most will still have a driver’s license.

Driving is important for maintaining independence and mobility as individuals age. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, aging-related changes, including vision, physical ability, cognition, and the effects of certain medications or chronic conditions, can affect driving safety and increase crash risk.
At the same time, however, research shows that older adults are more likely than younger drivers to wear seat belts, avoid risky behaviors, and drive more cautiously.
To help support safe driving, older adults are encouraged to:
• Always wear a seat belt
• Have vision checked regularly
• Review medications with a doctor or pharmacist
• Plan routes in advance
• Drive during safer conditions (daylight and good weather when possible)
• Minimize distractions
• Maintain a safe following distance

06/22/2026

For individuals living with dementia, interaction with animals can provide meaningful emotional and psychological benefits.

Research summarized by the Alzheimer's Association and the National Institute on Aging notes that animal-assisted activities may help reduce feelings of loneliness, encourage social engagement, and promote a sense of calm and comfort. It also can support routine and provide a sense of purpose.
For some individuals, petting, observing, or interacting with an animal may help stimulate positive emotions and engagement, even when communication has become more limited.
It’s important to consider whether a person with dementia is able to safely and consistently care for a pet. If that’s not possible, supervised animal-assisted therapy visits or therapeutic robotic companion animals may be options.

06/16/2026

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is an emergency life-saving procedure used when the heart stops beating. According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival following cardiac arrest. CPR is important because it helps maintain blood flow, which can extend the opportunity for a successful resuscitation once trained medical staff arrive on site.

Hands-only CPR is recommended for the general public or bystanders who witness someone collapse. It does not require mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and consists of two easy steps:
1. Call 9-1-1 (or have someone else call)
2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of a familiar song at 100 to 120 beats per minute. An example is “Staying Alive” by the Bee Gees. Continue compressions until medical help arrives.

To watch a 90-second video on how to perform hands-only CPR, visit the American Heart Association website (link in the first comment)

06/12/2026

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, communication often becomes more difficult. Challenges vary by individual, but patience, understanding, and good listening skills are essential for a meaningful connection.

In the early stages, a person may struggle to find the right words, repeat stories, become overwhelmed by stimuli, or lose their train of thought. They can still participate in conversations and social activities with patience and support.
During the middle stage, which is often the longest and can last for years, communication challenges often increase. Individuals may have trouble organizing thoughts, answering questions, or following conversations. Speaking slowly, reducing distractions, and asking simple questions can help.
In the late stage, verbal communication may become very limited and around-the-clock care may be required. Facial expressions, gestures, touch, music, and tone of voice often become the most meaningful ways to connect.
No matter the stage, treating individuals living with Alzheimer’s with dignity, patience, and compassion can make a significant difference for both patients and caregivers.

06/09/2026

Aphasia is a communication disorder that affects a person’s ability to understand or express speech, often caused by brain damage from a stroke or other neurological conditions. Speech therapy plays a central role in helping people with aphasia regain and improve communication skills.

A speech-language therapist works with individuals to improve their ability to speak, understand language, read, write, and interpret gestures. Therapists also teach the use of alternative communication tools, such as communication boards, picture books, or mobile apps.

Treatment is individualized. Along with rebuilding lost language skills, therapists help individuals strengthen remaining abilities to support everyday conversations and increase independence. Therapy is delivered in structured settings and often includes family members or caregivers to improve understanding and provide support at home.

In addition to family and caregiver support, individuals may also benefit from support groups. These groups offer emotional encouragement, access to resources, and help reduce isolation by connecting individuals with others facing similar challenges.

Address

4807 Edison Lakes Parkway
Mishawaka, IN
46545

Telephone

+15742437727

Website

http://rhni.ernesthealth.com/

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