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In addition to our state-of-the-art ability labs — applied therapeutic and research spaces — our facility features other innovative areas designed to help our patients recover.
No two recovery journeys are the same. In addition to a customized care plan, patients have access to specialized spaces based on their unique needs and goals.
Aquatic Therapy Pool
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Aquatic therapy speeds healing and improves outcomes. Increased buoyancy, resistance and hydrostatic pressure decrease pressure on joints, making it possible to “unweight” the patient. Warmth and motion lead to heightened muscle activity, which in turn improves circulation and lessens inflammation and pain. The pool is equipped with a state-of-the art lift to transfer patients safely into the water, which is maintained at an optimal therapeutic temperature.
Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Studios
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From the moment patients arrive at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, our team works to prepare them for the next step in their journey. Our four unique activities of daily living (ADL) studios throughout the hospital look and function like a home, equipped with a kitchen, living room, bathroom and laundry room. Our ADLs are utilized in occupational and physical therapy as our patients regain and refine daily living skills, such as cooking, opening cabinets and drawers, bathing, doing laundry, etc. Each ADL offers a slightly different floorplan to mirror a variety of home settings.
Assistive Technology Center
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Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is one of the few hospitals in the nation with an Assistive Technology Center and rehabilitation engineers onsite who are able to customize any patient device (e.g., to use head-/eye-controlled or voice-activated systems with specialty software). Our experts are equipped to set patients up with a specialized computer, communication device or electronic aid that best suits their needs.
Chapel
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Located on the 10th floor, our chapel space provides spiritual and emotional support through interfaith worship opportunities, consultation and complementary therapies. Our Spiritual Care Program supports patients and their families as they confront challenges, summon courage and celebrate new abilities.
Gardens
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Designed expressly for patients, our three expansive gardens encourage movement and progress — offering safe opportunities for strolls outside the hospital on foot, wheels or bionic limbs. The gardens provide a peaceful setting for our patients and their families to enjoy company or reflect on the road to recovery.
Prosthetics & Orthotics Suite
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We set the world standard in creating custom prosthetics and orthotics — leveraging both science and art. Our experts collaborate with patients’ physicians and therapy teams to provide the right prosthetic or orthotic device to meet their ability goals. We provide everything from prefabricated orthoses (braces) to customized microprocessor lower-limb prostheses (smart artificial limbs). After patients receive their device, our experts are available to provide continued maintenance and adjustments. Our Prosthetics & Orthotics Suite includes workspaces, tools, equipment, computers equipped with laser-guided digital cameras (to create 3-D models of limbs), a casting room and private fitting rooms.
Radiology & Imaging Suite
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Many of our patients’ medical conditions require periodic assessments. In our Radiology & Imaging Suite, we offer radiology, MRI, CT scanning, fluoroscopy, bone-density imaging, ultrasound/vascular studies, specimen processing and a research lab — all onsite so patients don’t have to leave the building for the care they need. Getting test results faster also means faster assessment, response and better outcomes for patients.
Multisensory Room
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Our multisensory room offers a customizable experience for patients to explore and is geared toward all ability levels — from those who are minimally conscious to those with behavior regulation disorders. Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the only rehabilitation hospital to offer this innovative space.
Wheelchair Seating & Positioning Center
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Wheelchair comfort, position and functionality are vital for independence, productivity and quality of life. Additionally, a perfectly fitted mobility device promotes good posture, improves breathing and digestion, and helps to prevent complications, such as pressure sores and skin irritation. At our Wheelchair Seating & Positioning Center — one of the only custom wheelchair seating centers in Chicago — our technicians work with patients to find a customized solution, resolve any issues and keep them moving while continually assessing their needs and abilities.
