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Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Helping People, Help Themselves – for Life

Physical therapy and rehabilitation help speed healing and improve outcomes after illness, surgery or injury. With both inpatient and outpatient options, you can gain access to expert care that restores movement, reduces pain and builds strength.

Comprehensive, caring rehabilitation to help you reach your goals

Expert medical professionals work together, using advanced technology in a comfortable setting to help each patient achieve a smooth and successful recovery.

A full continuum of care is available, including hospital-based care, inpatient rehabilitation and ongoing outpatient treatment. Whether recovering from an injury or managing a chronic condition, you will receive consistent support from day one through their return to daily life.

Physical, occupational and speech therapists bring advanced expertise and a personal touch. Our goal is to make sure you are supported, challenged and empowered to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between occupational therapy vs physical therapy?

Occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) are two different types of rehabilitative care. They each allow people to recover and improve their ability to function in a daily life, while focusing on different goals.

There are many different types of physical therapy, such as orthopedic, neurological or sports therapy. Each helps people improve movement, strength and mobility after an injury, surgery or illness. Physical therapy helps focus more on reducing pain, restoring function and preventing future problems through exercises and hands-on care.

Occupational therapy helps with everyday tasks, such as getting dressed, cooking or even working. Occupational therapy often times is perfect for someone recovering from an injury or managing a disability of some kind. Occupational therapy helps focus on building long term skills and adapting activities for everyday environments to help support independence for an individual.

Both therapy options aim to improve the quality of life, but they have a different approach, depending on the individual's goal.

Do I need a doctor's referral to start physical therapy or rehabilitation?

Yes, a doctor's referral is required to begin physical therapy or rehabilitation at Bryan Health. This is to help ensure your treatment plan can be developed properly, based on your primary care provider's diagnosis and coordinated alongside your provider to create the best treatment plan for your situation.

Once you have a referral, you can call to schedule an appointment with one of the licensed therapists. If you are unsure how to get a referral, we recommend speaking directly with your primary care provider or you can contact us for more information or questions at 402-481-9445.

How long does physical therapy or rehabilitation usually last?

The length of physical therapy or rehabilitation typically depends on your condition, goals and how your body responds to treatment. Some people are able to see improvement in their condition in as little as a few weeks, while others may need to continue their treatment plan for several months or more.

Your therapist will regularly assess your progress, discussing with you and your primary care provider, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Typically, most outpatient rehabilitation sessions are scheduled a few times per week.

What types of physical therapy and rehabilitation are available?

What conditions can physical therapy and rehabilitation help with?

Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help benefit many people recovering from injuries, surgeries or even those living with chronic conditions. Common conditions that can treated include:

  • Arthritis
  • Brain injuries
  • Carpal tunnel
  • Chronic pain
  • Concussions
  • Dry needling
  • Ear and balance difficulties
  • Hand injuries
  • Joint pain
  • Lymphedema
  • Neck injuries
  • Nerve injuries
  • Neurological disorders
  • Post-surgery recovery
  • Speech disorders
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Sports injuries
  • Stroke
  • Tendonitis
  • Work-related injuries
  • And more!

What's the difference between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation?

Inpatient rehabilitation is a service provided to you while you stay overnight at the rehabilitation location. This is typically only necessary after a serious illness, injury or surgery that requires close, consistent monitoring.

Outpatient rehabilitation is more suited for individuals that can live at home and commute to location for their rehabilitation session.

Although both provide equally important care, inpatient rehabilitation offers nursing care 24/7 and therapy is provided 3 hours per day, 5/7 days per week minimum.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Programs

Outpatient Rehabilitation

Outpatient Rehabilitation Services at a Glance:

Focused Care to Help You Heal at Home

Designed for patients that are medically stable and able to travel for therapy, outpatient rehabilitation supports recovery after surgery, chronic condition management or hospitalization. Therapists provide personalized care to help you regain your strength and function.

Therapy Tailored to Your Needs

Outpatient care may include physical, occupational or speech therapy, among others, based on your specific goals and referral. The goal is to match you with the clinic, therapist and schedule that best supports their specific recovery.

A Collaborative Approach

Each rehabilitation specialist will work directly with you, the referring physician and any other specialists involved in the patient care journey to keep their care on track. We focus on a smooth transition from inpatient, hospital or physician-based care to outpatient therapy, with a goal of maximizing independence and function.

Who We Help

Outpatient rehabilitation supports individuals recovering from joint replacement, injury, stroke, neurological events and chronic conditions. This is a great option for patients who have completed inpatient rehabilitation and are continuing their progress.

Learn More About Outpatient Rehabilitation

Inpatient Rehabilitation

Inpatient Rehabilitation Services at a Glance:

Comprehensive, Caring Inpatient Recovery

This program supports individuals recovering from life-changing injuries or conditions. Care is delivered by a team of experienced professionals, including physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists and therapeutic specialists. Each team member works together to promote recovery and independence.

Customized Therapy Plans

Each inpatient therapy plan is individually tailored to meet your unique medical condition and goals. Your therapy schedule will include a minimum of 3 hours of therapy per day, 5/7 days per week, based on your diagnosis and progress, with a focus on regaining mobility, communication, and self-care skills.

24/7 Support

Rehabilitation nurses provide round-the-clock care, assisting with daily needs and reinforcing skills learned in therapy. Support includes caregiver training, medication management and techniques for handling changes such as bowel and bladder control or skin integrity.

Medical Oversight from Rehabilitation Physicians

Patients are seen regularly by a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician who closely monitors progress and adjusts the care plan as needed. Family members are included in care discussions to ensure support continues at home.

Exceptional Patient Outcomes

Patient outcomes at Bryan Health consistently meet and exceed those of other regional and national inpatient rehabilitation facilities. A key measure of success is the ability to return home. On average, 82 percent of patients at Bryan are discharged directly home, which is more than seven percentage points above regional and national averages.

Who We Help

Inpatient rehabilitation is ideal for individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, orthopedic trauma, or neurological disorders. It’s also a good option for those experiencing a recent health change that affects everyday living.

Learn More About Inpatient Rehabilitation

Pediatric Therapy

Common Treatments

We help children with a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Developmental delays
  • Neurological or chromosomal disorders
  • Autism spectrum disorders
  • Torticollis
  • Feeding and swallowing issues
  • Sensory processing challenges
  • Speech and language difficulties
  • Premature birth risks
  • Brain or birth injuries

Pediatric Physical Therapy

Pediatric therapists focus on improving movement, strength, balance, posture and coordination. Therapy may also include assessment for orthotic bracing when needed, helping children develop age-appropriate motor skills for everyday life.

Pediatric Occupational Therapy

Pediatric therapy focuses on fine motor skills, sensory regulation, feeding, handwriting, visual-motor integration and daily self-care. Therapists also assist with adaptive equipment and provide parent education to help extend progress into the home environment.

Pediatric Speech Therapy

Speech-language pathologists work on speech clarity, language development, and swallowing. Therapy may include articulation support, receptive and expressive language activities, and feeding therapies for children with oral motor or texture sensitivities.

Why Families Choose Bryan

Expert care is paired with a family-centered approach. Therapists collaborate with parents to ensure therapy is goal-focused, age-appropriate and engaging, helping children not only meet milestones but thrive throughout their development.

Learn More About Pediatric Therapy



Bryan Rehabilitation and Therapy Locations

  • Bryan West Campus main entrance
    Bryan Medical Center,
    Bryan West Campus

    2300 S. 16th St.
    Lincoln, NE 68502
    Get Driving Directions

    Call 402-481-5121 to schedule

  • Bryan Medical Plaza
    Bryan Medical Center,
    Bryan East Campus

    1500 S. 48th St.
    Lincoln, NE 68506
    Get Driving Directions

    Call 402-481-5121 to schedule

  • Bryan LifePointe Campus
    Bryan LifePointe Campus

    7501 S. 27th St.
    Lincoln, NE 68512
    Get Driving Directions

    Call 402-481-5121 to schedule

  • Crete Area Medical Center
    Crete Area Medical Center

    2910 Betten Drive
    Crete, NE 68333
    Get Driving Directions

    Call 402-826-6541 to schedule

  • Merrick Medical Center
    Merrick Medical Center

    2802 28th St.
    Central City, NE 68826
    Get Driving Directions

    Call 308-946-3015 to schedule