Penn State Health Rehabilitation Hospital

03/02/2026

A brain injury can go unnoticed, which is why doctors rely on multiple tools to assess them. Imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provide detailed views of the brain and can reveal bleeding, swelling or structural changes. Early evaluation and testing is essential because it guides that patient’s treatment plan. Doctors ask questions to assess memory, attention and problem-solving skills. They also perform a full evaluation of the patient, while therapy teams look at movement, speech and daily skills to see how the injury is affecting life in real-time.

There are two types of brain injury — traumatic and non-traumatic — which stem from different causes. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are a disruption in normal brain function caused by an external force such as a bump, blow or jolt to the head often occurring in an accident, sports injury or fall. Non-traumatic brain injuries are damage to the brain caused by internal factors, such as illness or oxygen deprivation. Non-traumatic brain injuries are often considered a type of acquired brain injury and consist of strokes, tumors or cardiac arrest.

Using advanced diagnostic tools and patient evaluations, our rehabilitation hospitals determine the right path forward for each patient. Guided by physician-led multidisciplinary teams, every patient undergoes a full assessment and receives a customized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs. Read more below about how we help people regain their abilities and independence.

02/24/2026

After a rare blood cancer (acute lymphoblastic leukemia) diagnosis in 2024 and a nine-day rehabilitation stay at Penn State Health Rehabilitation Hospital, Kelli built on her recovery foundation with regular outpatient therapy. On her first outpatient visit, she was using a wheelchair and required hands-on help for mobility and assistance with daily living activities. After three months, she walks independently with a cane and has returned to her favorite hobby — crocheting handmade winter hats — which she gifted to her therapy team.

02/16/2026

For Heart Month, we’re sharing Jessica Ziemba’s story — a powerful reminder of courage and recovery.

Jessica expected a quick pacemaker procedure. Instead, she spent months in the hospital facing major heart and kidney complications. When she arrived for inpatient rehabilitation, she was weak, tired and unsure of what she could do.

With the help of her care team, Jessica built strength every day — practicing her steps using the parallel bars, climbing stairs, doing daily tasks and learning how to conserve her energy. Her family trained with her so they could continue to support her at home.

After 19 days, Jessica walked on her own and felt ready to return to her life. “Keep going,” she said. “Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen.”

Read Jessica’s story here: https://bit.ly/4a4ynPk

To learn more about Select Medical’s network of hospitals, visit: https://www.selectmedical.com/about-us/

02/11/2026

February is National Recreational Therapy Month 🏀🏌️

Our inpatient rehabilitation hospitals offer recreational therapy sessions that complement an extensive range of rehabilitation programs and services. Recreational therapy advances the healing process through fun and adaptive activities. This form of therapy helps to restore a person’s function and reduces activity limitations caused by an illness or disabling condition.

02/10/2026

02/02/2026

Every day, thousands of patients are cared for at our network of hospitals. Each of these patients has their own powerful story, filled with hope, goals and motivation.

In honor of National Patient Recognition Week, we thank our patients and their families for entrusting us with their care.

02/01/2026

February is Heart Month ❤

After a heart event, healing takes time — but you’re not alone.

Our Cardiac Recovery Program teaches you how to move safely, protect your incision and build strength step-by-step. The care team focuses on techniques to restore strength, how to use adaptive equipment, manage pain and swelling and keep your heart healthy.

To learn more, please visit: https://bit.ly/468P0rW

01/19/2026

Our answer is simple: Improving quality of life. Today, and every day, we are committed to serving our patients and their families.

01/12/2026

Today we celebrate Pharmacist Day and recognize the vital role our pharmacy team plays in patient care.

From pre-admission to post-discharge, our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians work behind the scenes and at the bedside to ensure patient safety. Before a patient arrives, they review and reconcile medications, checking that everything is in order. During a hospital stay, they independently manage multiple medications and make adjustments as needed. At discharge, patients receive counseling and follow-up support to help them stay on track.

Our pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are more than medication experts — they are partners in recovery.

01/01/2026

2026 brings renewed hope for a stronger tomorrow.

12/29/2025

What’s the best gift you got this year? For Patricia Kennon, it was regaining the ability to stand and walk independently for the first time in four years. Through pure grit, determination and support of our outpatient multidisciplinary team, Patricia was able to achieve a goal that was once thought to be unattainable.

12/19/2025

The season of light and hope reminds us of our patients’ resilience and the impact our care teams have every day. Here’s to brighter days and stronger tomorrows.