Inpatient rehab exercises are done within the confines of a hospital or other medically oriented establishment. A typical inpatient rehab program consists of intensive and coordinated active therapy five to six days weekly. Exercises serve the purpose of improving endurance, strength and balance while preparing individuals for a functioning lifestyle outside of the facility. Since exercises differ according to the injury being rehabilitated, not all exercises may be for your condition. Check with your doctor first.
Walking
Walking qualifies as an inpatient rehab exercise for many types of injuries. Walking is classified as a complex movement by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, since the exercise involves coordination, balance and muscle strength. Walking as an inpatient rehab exercise can improve functioning levels of stroke and/or brain injury survivors. Walking provides the best recovery after joint replacements or other joint ailments, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Walking is a recommended rehab exercise as soon as possible after any cardiac procedure, since the activity not only improves cardiovascular functioning but increases breathing capacity. Start walking at a comfortable pace for two minutes. If needed, use a walker, crutches, harness or assistant to help you. Slowly increase your time and intensity as you become stronger.
Aquatic Workout
Patients too weak to hold themselves up on land can benefit by aquatic inpatient rehab exercises. When used as hydrotherapy, water supplies a natural buoyancy that supports the majority of body weight. Water also stimulates the senses, making movement more beneficial for individuals with compromised senses, such as stroke survivors. Gain an all-body workout that strengthens and stretches your musculoskeletal system while also increasing your cardiovascular endurance by walking in the pool. With the accompaniment of your therapist, get into either waist or chest-deep water. Make certain your feet touch the pool's bottom. Walk across the width of the pool using your everyday gait. Upon reaching the opposite side, relax 30 seconds. If strong enough, walk back to your starting point.
Everyday Activities
Inpatient rehab exercises can be used during occupational therapy to help retrain the brain to perform everyday activities. Many stroke or brain injury patients lose sensory and motor abilities. Therapy exercises involving self-directed activities include, for example, learning to use a toothbrush.
Thigh Contractions
Muscle contractions can be done as inpatient rehab exercises. Muscle contractions are also known as isometrics. Straighten both of your legs for a quads tensing. Strengthen your leg muscles to better support your body weight by tightening your right quadriceps, or thigh, muscles. Hold this tension five seconds. Release the tension and relax 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise six times. Do the exercise again with your left leg.
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