Barriga finds strength through rehab at Life Care Center of Tucson

"I can't wait to get back home to show my grandson how much better I'm doing," said Lupe Barriga.

Barriga came to Life Care Center of Tucson, Arizona, after a fall at home left him with rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which muscle breakdown releases dangerous proteins into the blood. He was very weak when he arrived on Dec. 9, 2017, after a short stay in the hospital.

He immediately set to work on restoring his strength, balance and self-care skills. On the day of his therapy evaluation, Barriga was unable to sit up in bed. He had also lost the ability to stand up on his own or care for his basic needs.

Barriga worked diligently in physical and occupational therapy to regain his independence. Therapists trained him in exercises to strengthen his muscles, often using leg weights and the NuStep^® recumbent cross trainer.

On Jan. 2, 2018, Barriga returned home successfully. He is now able to get in and out of bed independently. He has also greatly improved in his ability to get dressed, take care of personal grooming and walk with a walker.