At Franciscan Health Lafayette East, the Acute Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation Unit offers hope for adult patients recovering from debilitating injuries or illnesses. Under the leadership of Dr. Pradeep Gnanapragasam, (Dr. Pradeep) a board-certified physiatrist with a specialty in brain injury medicine, the unit offers comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of every patient. Dr. Pradeep’s journey from orthopedic surgery to physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) was fueled by his desire to offer a full spectrum of care, treating patients “from head to toe”. This philosophy is at the heart of the unit’s approach to patient care.
Comprehensive Care for Every Patient
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Franciscan Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit is its ability to provide care across the entire adult lifespan. Whether helping patients in need of prosthetics or those recovering from strokes, the team delivers expert care tailored to each individual’s needs. Dr. Pradeep’s expertise allows him to manage complex cases, including brain and spinal cord injuries, as well as neuromuscular disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
Dr. Pradeep is proud of the unit’s positive culture, where every team member is committed to the patient’s best outcome. “When patients reach our rehab unit, they’re already better than when they entered the hospital. We focus on a holistic approach, involving the family in the process and addressing not just the patient’s medical needs, but also their emotional and social well-being.”
The care provided involves careful customization of treatment plans that evolve as the patient progresses. This approach includes precise timing of medication, therapy sessions, and even nutrition, ensuring that patients can give their best effort in therapy without being hindered by pain, low energy, or other challenges.
“We don’t just focus on one thing—whether it’s medications, therapy, or technology. It’s about taking everything into account and putting the puzzle pieces together,” says Dr. Pradeep. “This is what makes our unit unique.”
“Patients who start with us in the inpatient unit often continue with us as outpatients,” Dr. Pradeep adds. “We provide long-term, full-spectrum care, managing their functional needs, medical equipment, and rehabilitation. This continuity of care is vital for achieving the best outcomes.”
Cutting-Edge Technology that Enhances Recovery
The unit’s high-tech approach is a key factor in its success. Franciscan Health Lafayette is equipped with state-of-the-art rehabilitation technology, which Dr. Pradeep was instrumental in securing. One standout piece of equipment is the Overhead Dynamic harness, a ceiling-mounted system that allows patients to walk without the fear of falling. This system supports patients as they regain their strength and balance, enabling them to walk confidently and safely.
Additionally, a device called Erigo®Pro helps patients who are bedbound or unable to stand on their own. It combines a tilt table, electrical stimulation, and lower limb movement to gradually “verticalize” patients, helping them tolerate being upright while avoiding complications like low blood pressure or elevated heart rates.
The unit also boasts an Exoskeleton, a robotic system that attaches to the body and helps patients relearn how to walk after long periods of immobility.
“These technologies allow us to customize treatment based on each patient’s condition and progress,” says Dr. Pradeep. “The goal is to gradually reduce the need for these tools as the patient regains independence.”
Innovative Therapies and a Holistic Approach
The holistic approach at Franciscan Health Lafayette extends beyond physical rehabilitation. The unit incorporates Virtual Reality (VR) therapy, which has shown remarkable results in helping patients forget their limitations and engage in meaningful activities. Whether it’s a game or a simulated task, patients unknowingly improve their range of motion, stability, and overall functionality in the virtual environment.
“Patients love VR,” Dr. Pradeep says. “It not only distracts them from the challenges of rehab but also gives them tangible proof of progress. They can see their improvement in the virtual world and translate it into real-world gains.”
The Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS), a technology used to assess and treat memory, vision, and hand-eye coordination, adds another dimension to the unit’s advanced care. Additionally, Fiber Optic Endoscopic Swallow Studies (FEES), performed at the bedside, allow the team to quickly assess swallowing function and adjust treatment and meals without the need to transfer the patient out of their room.
These unique technologies, combined with the expertise of skilled physical, occupational, and speech therapists, create a well-balanced and highly effective treatment environment.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Every Patient Need
The physical environment at Franciscan Health Lafayette’s rehabilitation unit is just as thoughtfully designed as the care. Every room is equipped with oxygen, wall suction, telemetry, and even lifts for bariatric patients, ensuring that all patients—no matter how dependent—receive the care they need in a comfortable, well-planned setting. The unit’s ability to care for patients up to 600 pounds demonstrates its readiness to handle a wide range of patients’ needs.
With access to hospitalists and specialists 24 hours a day, as well as dedicated wound care and respiratory therapy teams, the unit is fully equipped to provide comprehensive care. “We have everything we need here to take care of any diagnosis, except for burn patients,” Dr. Pradeep notes. “We’re confident that we can provide the best care for our patients, whatever their needs are.”
A Community Resource
Dr. Pradeep’s message to the community is simple: “If there’s a need for rehab, we are the place to be.” He encourages potential patients and referral sources to call the unit with any questions they may have. “We are ready and happy to help,” he said. “If our unit is not the right fit, we can help direct them to the right specialist or to the right program.”
“Our goal is to enhance and enable our patients with FLAIR,” says Dr. Pradeep, referring to the unit’s motto. FLAIR equaling, “Franciscan Lafayette Acute Inpatient Rehab.” With a team that truly cares and a range of services that cater to every aspect of a patient’s recovery, the unit is a trusted place for rehabilitation in Lafayette, Indiana.
