Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Shreveport

08/20/2025

Today, we celebrated the grand opening of our newest hospital, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Central Florida–Sumter County. With the opening of this 50-bed hospital, we will be able to better meet the growing need for inpatient rehabilitation in this community.

With private rooms, advanced therapy technologies and a compassionate team of experts, we look forward to serving patients in the greater Sumter County area beginning in September!

08/15/2025

When Steven Crabb came to our Tucson, Arizona rehabilitation hospital after a stroke, he brought with him positivity and determination.

After working hard in therapy, including sessions using the Vector system to improve his balance and walking, Steven made incredible progress. The day he was discharged was nothing short of a celebration. As he rang the discharge bell, he walked down a hallway lined with cheering team members, high-fiving each one on his way home.

Steven has had many hospital stays in the past and said his time at Encompass Health stood out. He felt truly seen and supported by a team he described as empathetic, respectful and positive. He even said the food felt like a home-cooked meal every time.

At our hospitals, we know that recovery is personal. That’s why we celebrate every milestone — big or small — and work to help each patient return to the life and the people they love.

Congratulations, Steven! Your energy and kindness left a lasting impression, and we’re so proud to have been part of your recovery.

08/14/2025

Exercise after a stroke has a number of benefits. It can increase strength, mobility and endurance, while boosting your confidence and independence. Learn how exercise could support your recovery and how to get started.

After recovering from a stroke, exercise plays a vital role in continued function and independence. Learn more about the benefits and types of exercises that help most.

08/12/2025

When Lynn Lewis came to our Pensacola rehabilitation hospital after a fall, her goal was about more than recovery—it was about reclaiming her life. Living with Parkinson’s disease had made it harder for her to enjoy the activities she loves, especially dancing.

With the support of her physical therapist, Lindsay Harrison, who is certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, Lynn was able to share a special moment during her therapy: A foxtrot with her husband.

Using the Bioness Vector System, Lynn practiced big, coordinated steps in a safe, supportive environment designed to reduce her risk of future falls and build her confidence.

Every person's recovery is unique, and we’re honored to he there to help our patients get back to everyday tasks as well as those that bring them joy.

Thank you, Lynn, for trusting us with your care.

08/11/2025

With summer comes longer, sunnier days and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. But during the hottest months, you may need to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illness, especially if you are 65 or older. Learn the symptoms of common heat-related illnesses and get tips on how to prevent them.

08/08/2025

In May 2023, Kathy Estrada and her husband were ready to welcome their son, when what had been a normal pregnancy turned into a medical emergency that almost ended Kathy’s life.

After 30 days in the ICU and having to have all her toes amputated, her doctors determined she was ready for the next step in her recovery. Kathy insisted she go to our rehabilitation hospital in Miami. Afterall, that’s where she is director of pharmacy and experiences the life-changing impact of rehabilitation on a daily basis.

“I felt a sense of urgency,” she said. “The doctor who saved my life reminded me that I almost died, and I needed to stay in the ICU. He helped me remain calm, and about two weeks later he made sure I was admitted to my hospital.”

Today, Kathy is back as director of pharmacy, and her most important job of all, being mom.

After a complicated pregnancy, inpatient rehabilitation helped Kathy reach newfound independence to care for her baby and return to work.

08/07/2025

We're delighted to announce plans to build a freestanding, 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Haslet, Texas. Expected to open in 2027, this state-of-the-art hospital will serve patients recovering from debilitating illnesses and injuries, including strokes and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and other complex orthopedic conditions.

“We are excited to further expand Encompass Health’s presence in Texas,” said Brad Kennedy, Encompass Health group president. “We look forward to beginning construction of the hospital in Haslet so we can progress toward opening its doors and bringing high-quality inpatient rehabilitative care to the community.”

08/07/2025

Your furry friend does more than bring joy; they can also benefit your heart. Whether it’s getting in a brisk walk with your furry friend or just having a companion, pets can encourage movement and reduce stress. Learn how your pet may be boosting your heart health.

Research shows that owning a pet has positive health benefits

08/05/2025

Each quarter, our President and CEO Mark Tarr provides a company update for employees. His latest update includes a conversation about the launch of our new website. Check it out to learn what’s been happening at Encompass Health!

08/05/2025

Meet Mechell Mathews.

After undergoing surgery, Mechell was admitted to our Shreveport, Louisiana hospital to recover from an infection. When she arrived, she needed help with even the simplest daily tasks. But Mechell was determined to regain her independence.

Through hard work, dedication and the support of our incredible rehabilitation team, Mechell made remarkable progress. Now, she’s looking forward to getting back to the things she loves most — like fishing and spending time with her father.

Her journey is a reminder of how inpatient rehabilitation can help people rebuild their strength and return to the life they love. Congratulations, Mechell! 👏

08/04/2025

Congratulations to Caydence Herbert, physical therapy assistant, for being named our employee of the quarter. Your dedication and hard work never go unnoticed. Thank you for your compassion and unwavering commitment to excellence in caring for our patients.

We’re lucky to have you on our team!

08/04/2025

Staying up to date on vaccinations isn’t just for school-aged children or those traveling to exotic destinations. As you get
older, you could be at a higher risk of developing complications from certain illnesses; immunizations could help protect you and reduce these risks. Learn which ones you should consider getting if you are 50 or older and always consult your doctor when considering which are right for you.

As you age, your immune system declines in its ability to fight off harmful pathogens. Learn more about the benefits and recommendation of vaccines as you get older.

07/31/2025

Have you noticed the foods you once enjoyed don’t quite taste the same? As you get older, your taste buds change for many reasons — some natural, others linked to health conditions or medications. Without the right guidance, these changes can affect your appetite and overall well-being. A registered dietitian shares tips on how to keep your meals tasty as well as healthy as you age.

Why Does Your Sense of Taste Change as You Age? Find out how aging, the olfactory system and other factors can affect taste.

07/24/2025

Did you know that playing board games could improve brain health and help prevent dementia in older adults? It is a great way to increase working memory and cognitive function as you age. So grab a partner and pick your favorite game. Whether it’s Chess, Scrabble or Checkers, let us know your favorite in the comments.

Games of your youth may be valuable as you age. Play these brain games to prevent dementia and exercise the mind.

07/17/2025

After a life-changing diagnosis, it may be difficult to think of all the questions to ask your physician. You may be wondering about your next steps and where to go if you need additional medical care. Ask your doctor these four important questions to help you understand your care and make an informed decision.

After a serious illness or injury, your doctor may recommend post-acute care. Understand the settings, so you can advocate for your care.

07/16/2025

Don Pugh came to Encompass Health Shreveport after a stroke that affected his balance and coordination.

Through hard work and determination, Don has made great progress and can now perform more advanced balance and coordination activities.

“I’m very thankful to God for allowing me to come to Encompass Health, where everyone is so nice and helpful,” Don said. “I love it here and would live here if they’d let me.”

He will soon be heading home and is excited to return to his church. Don, it has been amazing to watch your progress. We are proud of all you have accomplished!

07/14/2025

🌟Meet Rodney Wilkerson

Rodney was admitted to Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Shreveport after a stroke affected his ability to stand and walk. With hard work, determination and the support of his family, Rodney made tremendous progress in therapy.

In this video, one of our therapists is training Rodney’s son on techniques and safety precautions to help support his dad while walking.

We’re so glad you chose us for your rehabilitation journey, Rodney. Thank you for trusting us with your care!

07/11/2025

🎣 Meet Mechell Mathews

Mechell was admitted to Encompass Health Shreveport after an infection developed following a heart valve replacement. When she arrived, she was experiencing weakness and needed assistance with her daily activities. Determined to get better, Mechell worked hard in therapy and made great progress. She’s now looking forward to discharging home soon to get back to fishing and visiting her father, who lives next door.

Keep up the great work, Mechell! 💪

07/10/2025

Did you know 15% of caregivers are long-distance? Being a caregiver often comes without a warning after a loved one experiences an accident or illness. It is possible to still care for your loved ones even if you live far away.

Long-distance caregiving can be challenging, but there are ways to stay connected and keep your loved one save, even from afar.

07/10/2025

Meet Monica Scantlin, our patient assessment standards coordinator at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Shreveport. PASCs use clinical judgment to review medical records, validate documentation and ensure accurate data reporting. We’re proud to have you on our team, Monica. Happy Patient Assessment Standards Week!

07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day from Encompass Health! Today, we celebrate freedom in every form — especially the hard-earned victories of our patients as they regain strength, confidence and independence.

Across our hospitals, ringing the independence bell marks more than a discharge — it’s a powerful symbol of determination, recovery and the next chapter. Wishing everyone a safe, meaningful and hopeful Fourth of July!