Hess recovers from lower back pain at Life Care Center of Andover

After a hospitalization for severe lower back pain, Velda Hess came to Life Care Center of Andover, Kansas, for rehabilitation.

When she arrived on April 3, 2018, Hess needed moderate assistance with walking, transfers and getting dressed. She also needed minimal assistance with her sitting balance, grooming and bathing.

Hess worked with physical and occupational therapists five days a week to recover her independence. In physical therapy, she did seating and standing exercises, as well as gait training with a four-wheeled walker, and in occupational therapy, she did upper-body exercises and training for her activities of daily living.

"Velda was a hard worker and liked working with therapy and getting stronger to be able to return to home at her prior level," said Todd Grisier, occupational therapist.

Hess did indeed return home to live with her daughter on April 28 with modified independence.

"Therapy has improved my walking and balance," said Hess. "The therapy was excellent."