Dr. Pairoj Surattanawanich, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, Thailand, recently announced the opening of a new Occupational Therapy Intensive Clinic at the Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute. This initiative underscores the Institute's commitment to becoming a center of excellence in patient rehabilitation through occupational therapy. 

Established in 2017, the clinic is dedicated to providing rehabilitation services to individuals with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) who are within six months of their diagnosis. Medical experts consider this period critical, often referring to it as the "golden period" of rehabilitation, where patients have a higher probability of recovery. The focus of the clinic is on intensive occupational therapy, aiming to maximize recovery potential and enhance quality of life for its patients. 

The clinic employs a variety of advanced techniques tailored to the specific needs and potentials of each patient. These include Constraint-induced Movement Therapy (CIMT), Mirror Therapy, and Repetitive Facilitation Exercise techniques (Kawahira Method), which are all supported by research and internationally recognized for their effectiveness. Additionally, the clinic incorporates cutting-edge technology such as computer-based therapy, robotic-based therapy, and virtual reality, which help increase motivation and improve recovery outcomes. 

Occupational therapists at the clinic are highly trained professionals, having undergone specialized training in various therapeutic techniques, including at the prestigious Laboratory of KAWAHIRA in Tokyo, Japan. The clinic maintains a high standard of care, ensuring a low therapist-to-patient ratio, with one occupational therapist for every two patients. Each rehabilitation session lasts one hour, with patients attending four to five sessions per week. 

The Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute is not only a leader in rehabilitation therapy but also in research and education. Ongoing studies assess the effectiveness of various rehabilitation techniques. For instance, research is currently underway to evaluate the impact of combining mirror therapy with traditional occupational therapy training on upper limb rehabilitation in stroke patients. The institute actively disseminates knowledge through training programs for occupational therapists and medical personnel, aiming to extend its reach beyond the institute to provincial and community healthcare providers. 

The Occupational Therapy Intensive Clinic at the Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute offers services to both inpatients and outpatients, equipped with a diverse array of rehabilitation equipment and technologies. This integration of multiple techniques and technology establishes a new model for comprehensive physical rehabilitation services for individuals with brain pathology, ensuring access to top-tier rehabilitative care. 

 

For more information about the Occupational Therapy Intensive Clinic and other initiatives at the Sirindhorn National Medical Rehabilitation Institute, please visit: Department of Medical Services.