Salem, MA - Shaughnessy-Kaplan Rehabilitation Hospital proudly announces the arrival of an advanced form of therapy for stroke patients through a device called the NESS H200.

The NESS H200 integrates state-of-the-art rehabilitation practices into a patient-friendly orthotic device. This advanced technology is designed to help patients improve hand movement and even grasp objects. With consistent use, clinical studies support the effectiveness of the NESS H200 in facilitating return of function for patients in the acute phase of recovery following stroke or brain injury, as well as for many patients whose injuries are years old.

Kevin Love, Manager of Occupational Therapy at Shaughnessy-Kaplan said “We have seen a tremendous positive response from our patients who are using the H200. Our patients’ functional improvement is exciting. The impact the device has on their motivation and participation in therapy is inspiring!”

Following stroke-like events caused by a rare disease known as CADASILS, patient David Eschrich of Ipswich turned to Shaughnessy Kaplan’s outpatient rehabilitation clinic for help. His treatment plan involved the utilization of the H200 to improve the mobility of his hand. “Within 7 weeks I saw a dramatic difference” said Eschrich. “I could grasp a bottle of water and was able to release it, and that was huge”. A Boat Carpenter by trade, Eschrich said his accomplishment brings him new hope. “If I can take that success and build on it, I will eventually be able to pick up a tool and lay down a tool”.

The NESS H200 device can be used in the hospital, in an outpatient setting, or at home. The Shaughnessy -Kaplan Rehab team of trained and certified Occupational Therapists provide initial evaluations to determine if this treatment is appropriate for the patient. This advanced therapy is currently offered at Shaughnessy-Kaplan’s Salem and Peabody outpatient clinics, and is available on an inpatient basis. For more information about this service, please call Kevin Love, Manager of Occupational Therapy at 978-825-8637. You may also visit www.skrh.org for more detailed information about the NESS H200. To schedule an appointment, please call 978-825-8700.

Shaughnessy-Kaplan Rehabilitation Hospital is a 160-bed specialty hospital in Salem serving the citizens of the North Shore and eastern Massachusetts. The hospital provides two levels of inpatient care including long-term acute care (LTAC) and Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF). Shaughnessy-Kaplan also has 6 outpatient rehabilitation clinics that provide comprehensive rehabilitative services in the areas of physical therapy, occupational therapy and swallowing & speech therapy.