Specialized Programs

Amputee and prosthetic services

If you or your family member has had an amputation, you can benefit from a wide range of physical and occupational therapies at Genesis. We offer physical therapy for donning/doffing prosthetics, gait (walking) training, balance activities, strengthening of core muscles, upper extremities, lower extremities and exercises to improve flexibility.

Our highly trained occupational therapists treat those who have sustained an upper extremity amputation to improve activities of daily living. Specific tasks may include bathing and dressing instruction, donning and doffing prosthetics, and education for household activity modification, such as meal preparation and self-care.

Further treatments may include pain relieving techniques for residual limb phantom pain, including soft tissue and scar mobilizations, swelling reduction techniques and desensitization techniques. Our physical therapists and occupational therapists work closely with you and your physician to ensure proper fit and comfort of the prosthetic.

Talk with your physician to see if you could benefit from therapy services to maximize function and mobility following an amputation. For more information about amputation/prosthetic services, call Genesis Rehabilitation Services at 740-455-5151.

Aquatics therapy

Aquatic therapy in a warm water pool provides a unique environment. The water provides a weightless effect to lessen the impact on weight bearing joints. The environment can also help strengthen weak muscles, improve mobility or balance. You’ll be able to experience aquatic therapy sessions individually or with four people or less in a small group. Aquatic therapy is also available for children.

Audiology

Audiology services are available for both inpatients and outpatients. The licensed, certified staff receive a referral from your primary care physicians or other specialists. Audiology services include baby hearing testing, pediatric hearing evaluations, adolescent through adult hearing evaluations, adult hearing aid evaluations and fittings, and balance testing.

Genesis Audiology Services is located at Genesis Hospital, 2951 Maple Ave., Garden Level, Room G164, Zanesville. If you’d like more information, call 740-454-4713.

Breast cancer rehabilitation

Our specialty-trained breast cancer rehabilitation therapists and physical therapist assistants work as a team alongside those dealing with breast cancer. A personalized plan of care is designed specific to each patient’s needs and goals. The physical therapist evaluates range of motion, strength, soft tissue dysfunction and patient goals. Treatments by physical therapists may include therapeutic exercises, various manual techniques and education. Each patient will be equipped with an evolving and comprehensive home exercise program for the best outcome.

Clinical swallowing evaluation

Genesis provides specialty-trained speech-language pathologists to evaluate and treat swallowing disorders, called dysphagia. Some symptoms of dysphagia include difficulty chewing solids, coughing or choking when eating or drinking.

Our speech-language pathologists provide exercises to improve swallowing muscles, techniques to decrease symptoms, and/or diet texture changes to increase safety. Patients in Genesis Hospital with swallowing difficulties can receive a clinical dysphagia evaluation following a physician referral. The speech-language pathologist will complete an evaluation and follow up with recommendations. For more information, contact the speech office located at Genesis Hospital at 740-454-5002.

Concussion management program

Genesis Rehabilitation Services provides one of the most comprehensive concussion management programs in the area. Our skilled therapists provide comprehensive evaluations and treatments for those diagnosed with concussion and post-concussion syndrome.

The evaluation includes a complete neurological assessment, vestibular screening, oculomotor testing, cervical spine assessment, balance assessment, Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT-5), ImPACT Testing, patient/family education and symptom management, return to work, return to school and return to play. Your physician can make a referral to the concussion management program at Genesis.

Flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES)

FEES is a procedure that may be completed by a speech language pathologist (SLP) at bedside by passing a small endoscope through your nose and into your throat to evaluate anatomy and swallow function. The SLP guides you through the procedure and provides food/drink that is dyed with food coloring. After the study, the SLP reviews and explains findings/recommendations and sends a detailed report to your primary care physician and referring physician.

If you have questions about this test, contact Inpatient Speech Therapy at 740-454-5002.

Functional dry needling therapies

If you’re experiencing pain, functional dry needling might be an effective supplemental technique along with your physical therapy. Functional dry needling treats musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions and works quickly to decrease pain and improve functional mobility. It is not appropriate for all conditions or pathologies. Your physical therapist will help you determine if dry needling is an effective treatment for you. Functional dry needling is not acupuncture (traditional Chinese medicine). It is based on neuroanatomy and modern scientific study of the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems.

A very fine filament needle is inserted through the skin and into the deeper tissues that are considered trigger points to your pain. The sterile, single-use needles create a microlesion within the pathological tissue, breaking up shortened tissues, inhibiting a reflex arc from the nervous system to the tissue and inducing a mild inflammatory response and centrally mediating the pain. This mechanical and neuromuscular effect enhances the body’s ability to heal, which ultimately reduces pain.

The conditions treated can include neck, back and shoulder pain, arm pain (tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, golfer’s elbow), headache to include migraines and tension-type headaches, jaw pain, buttock pain and leg pain (sciatica, hamstrings strains, calf tightness/spasms) and others. The treatment is administered by a specialized physical therapist.

For more information on functional dry needling at Genesis Rehabilitation Services, call 740-455-5151.

Dysphagia video fluoroscopic swallow study

Genesis Rehabilitation Services’ specialized programs include a swallowing study to show the movement of your throat and esophagus while you swallow. The test uses X-rays in real time (fluoroscopy) to film as you swallow and helps your doctor see why you’re having trouble swallowing.

The speech-language pathologist guides you through swallowing steps that takes about 20 to 30 minutes. After the study, the speech-language pathologist reviews and explains findings/recommendations and sends a detailed report to your primary care physician and referring physician.

If you have questions about this test, contact Inpatient Speech Therapy at 740-454-5002.

Lymphedema rehabilitation

If you have symptoms of lymphedema, our specialty-trained lymphedema therapists can provide an evaluation and develop a comprehensive plan to meet your needs. Lymphedema is swelling caused by an abnormal buildup of fluids in the tissue due to the lymph system not working correctly. In lymphedema rehab you can learn the signs and symptoms of lymphedema, risk-reduction practices and prevention, drainage techniques and training and exercises.

You can also receive recommendations for measuring and fitting compression garments including knee high compression stockings, thigh high compression stockings, compression arm sleeves, compression gloves and gauntlets, compression alternatives including Velcro wraps, compression bandaging or a pneumatic compression pump.

Neonatal touch and massage therapy

Certified physical and occupational therapy staff provide neonatal touch and massage therapy in the Genesis Level II Special Care Nursery. The specialty-trained therapists require a minimum of 1,000 hours of neonatal bedside experience. Neonatal touch and massage therapy promote movement, alignment and comfort of the infant without causing stress. Using touch and massage also promotes optimal neurobehavioral and neuromotor development of the high-risk infants and infant-parent attachment and bonding. For more information about this service, you contact Inpatient Physical Therapy at Genesis Hospital at 740-454-5250.

Orthopedic rehabilitation

Our experienced therapists are specialty-trained in orthopedic rehab. You can receive expert orthopedic rehabilitation specifically designed to meet your needs after a hip fracture, joint replacement, amputation or other related orthopedic condition.

Orthotic fitting

Genesis Rehabilitation Services provides an extensive lineup of specialized services, including orthopedic fitting. Improper foot alignment can cause pain and discomfort throughout our body. This misalignment places abnormal stress and strain on ligaments, tendons, muscles and joints which can cause inflammation and lead to injury.

A skilled physical therapist evaluates your gait (walking) and movement to see if the problem is improper foot alignment and if corrections are needed. Then the therapist works with a local orthotist/prosthetist to fabricate a custom orthotic insert.

Outpatient counseling

A key component of your overall health and wellbeing is your mental health. Genesis Rehabilitation Services offers counseling for those needing outpatient mental health services. The highly trained counselors provide supportive one-on-one sessions to help you develop ways to cope. The counselors also help you address real life challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, illness and other issues.

Pain management, interventional

Our team of pain management experts at the Interventional Pain Management Clinic is here to help you live life to the fullest. We focus on reducing your pain without medication and helping you to enjoy life again. Our physicians specialize in pain medicine and the newest techniques in providing the highest quality of care including nerve blocks and implantable devices to provide the most efficient and effective treatments.

Specialized therapies are also available from Genesis Rehabilitation Services. In addition, we can direct you to psychological counseling to help you and your family cope with the emotional consequences of pain and concerns about using medications long term for pain control. Ask your doctor for a referral to our interventional pain physicians or call us for more information at 740-454-4712 or 866-466-5200.

Parkinson's disease aquatics

Genesis HealthCare System is at the forefront of new exercise and activities in managing Parkinson’s disease. Exercise has been shown to be a vital part of the Parkinson’s treatment.

A weekly group aquatic class is specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s disease and is held at the Muskingum County Family YMCA. The class focuses on exercises for balance, strengthening and coordination. The buoyance of water helps decrease the fear of falling and makes people feel safer. Since movement in water is easier than on land, participants feel more confident, have improved stability, feel more independent and have a better quality of life. Classes are held on Thursdays. Stop at the main entrance of the YMCA to complete a permission form before joining the class. Bring a swimsuit and towel.

Parkinson's disease exercise program

Genesis Rehabilitation Services is one of the first in the state to offer Rock Steady Boxing. Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact fitness program designed to improve Parkinson’s patients’ movements. Parkinson’s disease is characterized by tremors, slow movements, rigidity, unstable posture and freezing movements.

Genesis physical therapists have advance training to offer Rock Steady Boxing. The exercises include high intensity, quick punches designed to improve the freezing movements that people with Parkinson’s often have.

Caregivers and partners are welcome and encouraged to participate in the classes and all exercise/activities can be modified to suit the participant’s needs. The classes are $5 each with the first class free.

Running analysis

A special running analysis program is available to help you improve your running technique. Our trained physical therapist performs a physical exam along with a video analysis of your walking and running form. Using the technology, biomechanical areas of deficit are examined that may cause pain or increase your risk for pain. Your running analysis is performed on a treadmill to produce 2D images of your mechanics. After analysis, a treatment plan is formulated for you to improve efficiency, endurance and reduce pain. The program does not need a physician referral and is available for self-pay.

Spinal cord rehabilitation

We offer a team approach to spinal cord injury (SCI) treatments and rehabilitation. Following rehabilitation in the hospital, an SCI survivor can continue therapies at Genesis Rehabilitation Services closer to family and friends. A comprehensive physical therapy plan addresses physical and psychological needs.

Our physical therapists work closely with occupational therapy, speech therapy, clinical counseling and community resources to offer expert, individualized care. The specialized treatment includes weekly therapy sessions focusing on exercises and education with a goal of helping individuals have an independent life.

Sportsmetrics

Genesis Rehabilitation Services offers the area’s only certified Sportsmetrics™ trainers. The unique exercise program for female athletes is designed by Cincinnati SportsMedicine and Orthopedic Center to help reduce risk of injury and enhance overall performance. The program focuses on developing lower extremity strength and perfecting jumping and landing mechanics. This elite program is offered by certified physical therapists at Genesis.

The training program is 6 weeks and encompasses dynamic warm-up, plyometrics/jump training, speed and agility training, high intensity strength training and flexibility training. Sportsmetrics™ can help determine your risk for injury. The Sports Injury Test included in the program evaluates strength, function, flexibility and body mechanics. After completing testing, the Genesis Sportsmetrics™ certified trainers help you correct the deficiencies found through testing. While this program was scientifically tested on females, males can also benefit from developing overall lower extremity strength and perfecting jumping and landing mechanics.

Stroke rehabilitation

Stroke rehabilitation at Genesis focuses on each individual’s needs and encompasses an outpatient team including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and counseling, all available at Genesis Rehabilitation Services.

Physical therapy focuses on sitting, standing and walking with state-of-the-art equipment, including a LiteGait machine. The machine helps provide support to encourage walking earlier in the therapy. Experienced therapists work side-by-side patients and their families to improve the patient’s ability to move. The therapy includes navigating steps, stairs and curbs.

Occupational therapy helps patients return to daily activities such as dressing, bathing, reading and cooking. The occupational therapists also complete vision screenings and treatment for eye movement disorders after a stroke.

Our special stroke therapy includes speech therapy to help improve speech, memory, eating and swallowing. Our specialty-trained speech-language pathologists use VitalStim® to help with swallowing. A doctor’s referral is needed to schedule an evaluation.

Vestibular rehabilitation

Specialized vestibular therapy is available at Genesis. Vestibular therapists perform visual screenings, positioning tests, coordination tests and balance and gait (walking) analysis to diagnose your condition. Our therapists also work closely with physicians, neurologists, ear, nose and throat specialists (ENTs) and audiologists to develop the best rehabilitation and treatment plan for you.

Vital stimulation therapy

You’ll find a special therapy available at Genesis to improve swallowing. VitalStim® is a safe and effective non-invasive treatment for patients suffering with difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia. Performed by a trained-speech language pathologist, the therapy uses neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), to help strengthen muscles and improve swallowing.

Wheelchair and seating clinic

Our qualified physical therapists can help find the best type of equipment to increase your mobility. First, a physician or other healthcare provider recommends a manual/power wheelchair or scooter to increase your mobility. Then our physical therapist evaluates your balance, walk or gait and limitations. The evaluation takes about one hour, and a skilled physical therapist and wheelchair vendor is present. At the end of the session, you’ll have the opportunity to try out equipment. You can also receive training with the recommended equipment, if needed.

Women's health and pregnancy

We offer a wide range of physical therapy and other rehabilitation programs specifically designed for women’s needs including breast cancer rehabilitation and Sportsmetrics™, a training program for female athletes.

Work hardening and work conditioning

You’ll find work hardening, an individualized program of work-related activities, available at convenient locations. The treatment uses body mechanics to improve musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and biochemical psychomotor systems to return to work. The treatment starts with two to four hours daily and progresses to eight hours a day by the time the treatment is complete. The program simulates work tasks/duties with licensed therapists who assess the safety and accuracy of completing work tasks/duties.

Another program, work conditioning, does just what it says. It conditions you to get back to work as soon as you can. The goal is to increase tolerance, evaluate psychological status and improve your job-related activities. The treatment is usually two hours for each treatment, three times a week.