DHR Health is proud to announce that it has been recognized by EKSO Bionics as a “Center of Excellence” for the EKSO NR. This makes DHR Health the only healthcare facility in Texas to hold the accreditation and only one of five nationwide. Representing rehabilitation technology/innovation, the EKSO NR is a wearable robotic exoskeleton that has been approved by the FDA to treat patients suffering from stroke and acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury up to C7, and multiple sclerosis. The device is designed to augment a patient’s strength as they stand and relearn to walk, helping them gain confidence and freedom on their road to physical recovery.
“We are beyond thrilled to be the first and exclusive titleholder of this certification in Texas,” said Dr. Saroja Viswamitra, Director of DHR Health’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “This remarkable achievement showcases DHR Health’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve, regionally and throughout our great state.”
To be named a Center of Excellence, DHR Health had to meet at least fourteen criteria, like making research and clinical use of the EKSO NR, collaborating with EKSO Bionics on EKSO NR user advocacy and educational events, utilizing the latest in rehabilitation technology, and having on staff a Level 3 trained physical therapist.
DHR Health has pioneered the use of the EKSO NR across the continuum of care from the Rehabilitation Hospital to the Neuro Therapy Institute (out-patient clinic). “The Ekso NR offers many unique benefits for patients such as those recovering from a stroke, who are relearning to walk again, as the device promotes early mobilization and can help improve gait speed and distance, which are critical factors for optimal recovery,” explained Dr. Michael Auer, Director of DHR Health’s Neuro Therapy Institute. “Our goal is to optimize patient outcomes at every stage of the care journey.”
As a recent stroke survivor, former DHR Health physical therapy assistant Yvette Rangel has personally credited the EKSO NR with her rapid recovery. “I have come a long way since my stroke and I would like to thank DHR Health for utilizing the EKSO NR device during my recovery. EKSO NR can really help people who have gone through a stroke.”
In addition to EKSO NR therapy, DHR Health offers rehabilitation services and programs for amputee and brain injury patients, community integration and neurologic music therapy, neurological and orthopedic therapy, post-operative rehabilitation, and pet therapy.
For more information about the EKSO NR and the rehabilitation services available through DHR Health, please contact the Rehabilitation Institute at (956) 362-6870 or the Neuro Therapy Institute at (956) 362-6636.
