Neuro Connections Therapy

05/30/2025

If you or a loved one is navigating life after a stroke, brain injury, or another neurological condition, occupational therapy can be a powerful tool on the path to recovery. 💪

At Neuro Connections, we help adults regain independence, confidence, and function in everyday life—from getting dressed to preparing meals or returning to favorite hobbies.

It's not just therapy—it's a journey back to living fully. 💚

📞 Reach out to learn how we can support you or someone you care about.

10/01/2024

Please join me next Tuesday Oct 8th at 2:00 for Stroke Support Group! Our topic for October is emotions after stroke. Come learn more and meet other survivors and caregivers!

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fitchburg is hosting a stroke support group the second Tuesday of each month. Please join us from 2:00- 3:30pm to discuss challenges and victories of life after a stroke.

Learn more about our hospital here: https://ehc.rehab/3ZF75vy

09/25/2024

Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in brain injury recovery, as it enables the brain to adapt and reorganize itself to compensate for lost functions or damaged areas. After a stroke or brain injury, neuroplasticity facilitates the recovery of motor, cognitive, and sensory abilities in several ways:
-The brain can reassign functions that were once controlled by the damaged area to other, undamaged areas. This involves the creation of new neural pathways and the strengthening of existing connections.
-strengthening or weakening of connections between neurons. After a stroke, increased use and practice of certain functions can improve connections.
-Nerve cells can grow new branches to form connections with other nerve cells, bypassing the damaged areas and creating other pathways for communication.
-Targeted rehabilitation exercises and therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, can promote neuroplasticity by providing repeated, task-specific practice.

If you or a loved one is experiencing challenges after a stroke or brain injury, call today for a free consultation (608)205-8656

09/18/2024

This is a Sock Aid! A sock aid can help someone who has difficulty reaching down to their feet to put on socks. There are multiple styles available including hard plastic, flexible and extra wide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Sock Aid
1. Prepare the sock aid: Hold the sock aid by its straps and place it on your lap.
2. Place the sock on the aid: Stretch the sock over the sock aid, ensuring the heel on the hard plastic side
3. Position the sock aid: Place the sock aid on the floor in front of you.
4. Insert your foot: Slide your foot into the sock aid.
5. Pull the straps: Pull the straps upward, sliding the sock onto your foot.
6. Adjust the sock: Ensure the sock is properly positioned and comfortable.

It can take some practice to feel comfortable with using a sock aid. An Occupational Therapist can help you problem solve if a sock aid is right for you or any challenges that come up when you try it out.

If you or someone you love is having a hard time getting dressed after a neurologic event, call today for a free consultation to see how we can help.

(608)205-8656
www.neuroconnections.org

09/10/2024

Please join us at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fitchburg Today 2:00-3:30 for our first monthly Stroke Support Group! Come connect with other stroke survivors and learn more about stroke recovery.

Stroke survivors and caregivers welcome.
2:00-3:30 PM
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fitchburg (5535 Nobel Dr. Fitchburg)

09/02/2024

Happy Labor Day from Neuro Connections!

08/30/2024

Join us Tuesday, September 10th at 2:00 PM at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fitchburg to connect with other stroke survivors and learn about stroke recovery!

08/27/2024

This is Dycem! Some patients refer to this as the "blue sticky stuff". Dycem is used to help stabilize objects, hold objects firmly in place, or to provide a better grip. It does not leave a residue on the surface and does not need to be adhered to a surface in any way. It can be cut to fit any surface depending on how much is needed. It can be washed with soapy water and reused as needed.

Dycem can be used in so many ways! Here are a few examples of how it can be used around your home:

-Place under a bowl to keep it from moving while you stir
-Put it under a piece of paper to keep it from moving when you write.
-Put it on a grab bar if you have a hard time holding on
-Use it to help open jars or containers
-Put it under a cutting board to keep it from sliding.
-Use it anywhere you need extra grip

If you or someone you love is having a hard time with daily tasks after a neurologic event, call today for a free consultation to see how we can help.

(608)205-8656
www.neuroconnections.org

08/16/2024

🧠 Understanding the Brunnstrom Stages of Motor Recovery 🧠

Recovering from a stroke can be a long and challenging journey, but understanding the stages of motor recovery can provide valuable insight and hope. The Brunnstrom Stages of Motor Recovery outline the typical progression of motor function rehabilitation in stroke survivors.

1️⃣ Flaccidity:
Immediately after the stroke, there is little to no movement in the affected limb.

2️⃣ Spasticity Appears:
Tightness in certain muscle groups tends to develop.

3️⃣ Increased Spasticity:
Tightness reaches its peak, and voluntary control of movement starts to improve.

4️⃣ Decreased Spasticity:
Tightness starts to decline, and more complex movements become possible.

5️⃣ Complex Movement Combinations:
Tightness continues to decrease, allowing for more coordinated and voluntary movements.

6️⃣ Spasticity Disappears:
Tightness disappears, and movements become more controlled.

7️⃣ Normal Function Returns:
Normal motor function returns, with the ability to perform complex and coordinated movements smoothly and accurately.

Recovery can vary greatly from person to person, but these stages provide a roadmap for rehabilitation and highlight the potential for improvement over time. With dedication, hard work, and support, many stroke survivors can make remarkable strides in regaining their motor function. 💪✨

08/08/2024

This is a Foot Funnel! A Foot Funnel is similar to a shoehorn. You place the device in the back of your shoe prior to putting it on your foot to keep the back of the shoe from being pushed down. You then slide your foot in the shoe and use the cord to remove the device. This can be simpler to use than a shoe horn but both can be effective!

Some shoes are now solving this problem by making a more stable back. Some options include Sketchers Step-Ins and Kizik.

If you or someone you love is having a hard time getting dressed after a neurologic event, call today for a free consultation to see how we can help.

(608)205-8656
www.neuroconnections.org

07/08/2024

Occupational therapy (OT) can make a world of difference for stroke survivors by modifying homes to enhance safety and independence. According to Washington University School of Medicine, these adjustments can save lives and extend the ability to live independently. From installing grab bars to reorganizing spaces, these modifications not only prevent accidents but also empower stroke survivors to navigate their homes with confidence. OT is truly transforming lives, one home at a time! 💪🏠❤️

If you or a loved one recently experienced a neurologic event and are looking for a different approach to rehabilitation, call today for a free consultation!

Clinical trial shows program to help stroke patients supports safe transition home

07/04/2024

🎆🇺🇸 Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸🎆

Celebrate the spirit of independence with us! Whether you're enjoying a BBQ with friends and family, watching fireworks light up the sky, or simply appreciating the freedom we cherish, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday.

At Neuro Connections we know how important independence can be! If you are needing help with daily tasks after neurologic events or diagnosis, call for a free consultation to see how we can help!