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Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, causing injury in that area. It can alter nearly every aspect of daily life, including the ability to move, speak, think, see, and swallow – as well as emotional function. Stroke recovery is a comprehensive process that helps patients regain as much independence as possible.

UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center is one of the largest acute inpatient rehabilitation centers in Alabama. Our specialized stroke program is supported by a team of skilled physicians, nurses, therapists, psychologists, case managers, and many others, who provide every component of stroke rehabilitation in a coordinated setting.

Stroke injuries are complex and affect each person differently based on numerous factors, so we develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Rehabilitation addresses the following common challenges:

Mental

Partial or complete loss of sensation below the level of injury

Physical

Loss of strength, mobility, and control of body systems such as bowel, bladder, and blood pressure

Emotional

Mood shifts, difficulty with concentration, memory, or judgment following trauma or neurological impact

3 Rehabilitation nurses with a resident physician

Our Approach

Our inpatient stroke program includes high-intensity (three or more hours, most days) physical, occupational, speech, and recreational therapy, and numerous other therapies as needed. These include neurological music therapy (to support communication recovery), cognitive rehabilitation (to support thinking and problem solving), and neuropsychological counseling (to cope with emotional or mood changes). Education and support are provided not only to the patient but also to caregivers, ensuring a strong recovery foundation.

We lead weekly education classes address stroke risk factors, prevention strategies, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and available financial resources. Case managers support both patients and caregivers in preparing for discharge and coordinate continued care.

What to Expect:

Patients will participate in a structured therapy program tailored to their physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. Family members are included in education and recovery planning.

Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan aimed at restoring function, confidence, and comfort. Therapy is structured around your goals and includes regular progress checks. Emotional health is integrated into your care from the start. Your team begins planning for home or outpatient services early in your stay to ensure a smooth transition.

Other therapies and support services include:

  • Orthotics and prosthetics
  • Botulinum toxin, to help manage abnormal muscle tightness (known as spasticity)
  • Robotics and neuromodulation technology
  • Driving evaluations
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT)

UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center is part of the UAB Comprehensive Stroke Center’s continuum of care.


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Recent News

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Karen Culverhouse, physical therapist assistant
Spain Rehabilitation Center News
September 4, 2025
Alex Posey, OTR/L, CSRS, occupational therapist
Spain Rehabilitation Center News
September 4, 2025

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