Is Rehabilitation an Option for My Mother-in-Law's Condition?

Is rehabilitation acceptable?

Hello Doctor: My mother-in-law was diagnosed with lymphoma that metastasized to the brain in October 2008, and she underwent surgery to remove it, followed by chemotherapy and rehabilitation in the hospital.
However, in 2009, she accidentally fell down the stairs and suffered a brain hemorrhage, but she did not have surgery.
She received about six months of physical and occupational therapy in 2009, but the results were not very good due to her lack of cooperation.
Recently, we have noticed severe edema on the right side of her body, and she has difficulty walking and experiences abnormal electrical sensations that cause her to cry out in pain with any movement.
The neurologist mentioned that these are sequelae from the surgery.
We are currently receiving treatment from the oncology and neurology departments at National Taiwan University Hospital.
My mother-in-law also has mild dementia.
If we would like to transfer her to your hospital for rehabilitation, is that possible? We hope to receive treatment nearby!

Annie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/01

Dr. Chen Wayda reply Rehabilitation

You can come for outpatient rehabilitation therapy.
Please bring relevant medical records from National Taiwan University, such as the summary of hospitalization records, outpatient medical records, and imaging CDs.

Reply Date: 2011/07/01

More Info

Rehabilitation can indeed be a viable option for your mother-in-law's condition, especially considering her medical history and current symptoms. Given her past experiences with lymphoma, brain surgery, and subsequent complications, it is essential to approach her rehabilitation with a comprehensive plan tailored to her specific needs.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that rehabilitation after neurological events, such as a stroke or brain surgery, can significantly improve quality of life. The fact that your mother-in-law has experienced both physical and cognitive challenges, including edema in her right side and mild dementia, suggests that a multidisciplinary approach to rehabilitation would be beneficial. This typically involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, and possibly speech therapy, depending on her needs.

Physical therapy can help address her mobility issues and the edema she is experiencing. A physical therapist can design a program that focuses on strengthening her muscles, improving her balance, and enhancing her overall mobility. This is crucial, especially since she has reported instability while walking. Techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage may also be employed to manage her edema effectively.

Occupational therapy is equally important, as it focuses on helping her regain independence in daily activities. An occupational therapist can work with her to develop strategies for managing tasks that may have become challenging due to her physical limitations or cognitive decline. This may include adaptive techniques for self-care, meal preparation, and other daily routines.

Given her mild dementia, cognitive rehabilitation may also be necessary. This can involve activities designed to improve her memory, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive function. Engaging her in cognitive exercises and providing a structured routine can help maintain her cognitive abilities and enhance her quality of life.

It is also crucial to consider her emotional and psychological well-being during this rehabilitation process. Patients with a history of serious illness and neurological complications often experience feelings of frustration, anxiety, or depression. Therefore, involving a psychologist or counselor in her care may be beneficial to address these emotional aspects and provide support for both her and the family.

Regarding the possibility of transferring her to a rehabilitation facility, it is essential to communicate with her current healthcare providers at National Taiwan University Hospital. They can provide guidance on the best rehabilitation options available, including whether a transfer to a specialized rehabilitation center is appropriate. Many rehabilitation facilities have the resources and expertise to handle complex cases like your mother-in-law's, and they can offer a more focused rehabilitation program.

In conclusion, rehabilitation is indeed an option for your mother-in-law, and it can play a significant role in improving her physical and cognitive functions. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and emotional support will be essential in her recovery process. Open communication with her current medical team will help facilitate the best possible care and ensure that she receives the support she needs during this challenging time.

Similar Q&A

Addressing Knee Deformities: Rehabilitation Options for Your Loved One

My mother-in-law's knees are deformed, with both knees angling outward. What should I do? Which specialist should I take her to see? Thank you.

Dr. Lin Ruixiang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, Winnie: You can schedule an appointment with orthopedics for further evaluation. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Post-Accident Rehabilitation: Addressing Concerns and Treatment Options

Thank you very much, Dr. Lin, for carefully addressing my concerns. I understand that many medical issues require cooperation between the patient and the physician to achieve the best treatment outcomes. I later explained the situation to my elder family member, but considering t...

Dr. Lin Ruixiang reply Rehabilitation
Dear Mr. J: You have truly worked hard for the health of your family, putting in considerable effort and doing your homework. When it comes to trauma patients, the first step is to treat the injury; once the disease is treated, all problems are resolved. However, reality often p...

Can My Mother Continue Rehabilitation After One Year Post-Stroke?

Hello Dr. Yin, I apologize for bothering you. My mother, Yu Huang A-Zhu, requires rehabilitation treatment following a stroke, but she has exceeded the one-year rehabilitation period covered by health insurance. I would like to know if your hospital can accommodate her for cont...

Dr. Yin Xinbei reply Rehabilitation
Unless there is a new stroke or other neurological disease, post-stroke chronic rehabilitation is classified as maintenance therapy under health insurance regulations and does not meet the criteria for hospitalization. Additionally, outpatient rehabilitation should not be conduct...

Chronic Hand Pain: Effective Rehabilitation Strategies and Tips

Hello Doctor: I am Xiaoyu. My mother has been experiencing hand pain for a long time and has visited many clinics. The doctors have advised her to apply heat daily, use topical medications, and sometimes undergo physical therapy, but there has been no improvement. She has tried e...

Dr. Zheng Shunping reply Rehabilitation
In response to your question: Based on the symptoms described for your mother, it is possible that there is an issue with her fingers or wrists. Since she has not seen improvement after treatment at multiple clinics, there may be underlying joint or even immune system problems. I...