Sheltering Arms Institute
REINVENTING REHABILITATION FOR LIFE BEYOND LIMITS
1 2 3 6 8 10 12 14 WELCOME
RECOVERY JOURNEY TIMELINE
INSIDE OUR HOSPITAL
THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE
MEET YOUR CARE TEAM
SPECIALIZED CLINICAL SERVICES
SUPPORT SERVICES
CONTINUED CARE
#1
by U.S. News & World Report
We are a national leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adolescents and adults who have experienced severe or complex injuries, illnesses, and conditions.
Sheltering Arms Institute offers the most comprehensive physical rehabilitation treatment and support in the MidAtlantic region and beyond to care for individuals and their caregivers. Our evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and the latest rehabilitation technology ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Our nonprofit research hospital includes:
• 46-acre campus
• More than 200,000 sq. ft.
• 4 specialty care units
• Capacity for up to 144 beds
• Outpatient and fitness services
We understand your recovery journey is unique, and we are here to support you along your road to recovery.
Acute Care
Hospital or Physician
Referral
Inpatient Rehabilitation
Average length of stay upon admission to Sheltering Arms Institute: 7-16 days
Graduation from Inpatient Rehabilitation
Your care team will assemble an aftercare plan tailored to your needs
Community partners offer assistance
Outpatient Therapy
Adaptive exercise training, day recreation, aquatics, and more
Support groups as needed
Multiple convenient locations around Richmond Care managers check in Fitness, Recreation, and Wellness
Located in a peaceful area just west of Richmond, our freestanding, state-of-the-art inpatient rehabilitation hospital is easily accessible to nearby highways, dining, shopping, and accommodations. Our hospital is custom designed to be the best healing environment for you and your loved ones with bright, open spaces and modern amenities.
FIRST FLOOR
Main Therapy Gym Chapel Café
Terrace and Bridge Garden
SECOND FLOOR
Stroke and MultiSpecialty Units
Nurse Station
Dining Room
Family Lounge
On-Unit Gym
THIRD FLOOR
Brain and Spinal Cord Injury & Complex Care Units
Nurse Station
Dining Room
Family Lounge
On-Unit Gym
FOURTH FLOOR Coming Soon!
OUR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
• Amputee Care & Prosthetic Training
• Aquatic Therapy
• Balance & Fall Prevention
• Brain Injury Recovery
• Concussion Services
• Critical Illness Recovery
• Developmental Disabilities
• Driver Readiness
• Dry Needling
• Industrial Rehabilitation
• Joint Replacement Recovery
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Neurological Rehabilitation
• Occupational Therapy
• Orthopedic Rehabilitation
• Pain Management
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Pelvic Health
• Physical Therapy
• Post-COVID
• Post-Surgical Recovery
• Pregnancy Recovery
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Spinal Cord Injury Recovery
• Spine Surgery Recovery
• Stroke Recovery
• TMJ Therapy
• Vestibular Therapy
• Video Motion Analysis
• Wheelchair Assessments
Our secure Brain Injury Unit provides a calming, low-stimulation environment to facilitate healing and recovery. The unit includes its own gym and a team of specialists to help patients with physical and cognitive functioning, activities of daily living, behavior, and emotional well-being. As a federally recognized Traumatic Brain Injury Model System center, we integrate the latest research into patients’ care plans to promote optimal recovery.
The Multi-Specialty Unit provides care for individuals who have experienced a variety of injuries and illnesses – from orthopedic surgeries and fractures to multiple sclerosis, cardiac, and critical illness recovery. It is also home to our comprehensive Limb Loss Program, including pre- and postprosthetic training. We offer skilled clinical care that is holistic and promotes recovery through advanced technology and evidence-based care.
This unit is equipped to care for individuals with various levels and types of spinal cord injuries, including those who require mechanical ventilation, as well as patients who have experienced severe burns, transplants, and other complex conditions. As a federally recognized Spinal Cord Injury Model System center, we participate in and collaborate with other national institutions to remain on the forefront of SCI rehabilitation research, which is incorporated into treatment for optimal recovery.
Our comprehensive stroke and neuro recovery programs are backed by a team of compassionate experts who specialize in all aspects of stroke and neurological rehabilitation. Patients have access to proven treatment strategies and advanced technology to increase intensity and neuroplastic changes while maintaining safety, which in turn leads to the best possible outcomes.
Located within the main therapy gym, our ADL suite is equipped with a full kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom to learn adaptive strategies or simply practice daily living tasks to return to independence.
Just outside of our front doors, the Bridge Garden is an accessible outdoor sanctuary where patients can participate in therapy, visit and dine with loved ones, or simply take in some fresh air.
The café is located on the first floor. Hot specialty meals; grill, sandwhich, and soup stations; a salad bar; and grab-and-go snacks are available during hours of operation. Vending machines are located in the lobby behind the front desk.
Our interfaith chapel is located on the first floor. All are welcome to attend our weekly, non-denominational worship services held each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. Chaplain services are also available to patients and their loved ones on an asdesired basis.
Our 10,000 sq. ft. main therapy gym is equipped with cutting-edge rehabilitation technology such as bodyweight support, robotics, functional electrical stimulation, and more to provide groundbreaking physical rehab and amplify results. We invest in the latest models and carefully select each piece that goes into our hospital. Additionally, satellite gyms are located on three of our specialized care units.
Spacious, private rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, large picture windows with nature views, patient lifts, flatscreen TVs, and ample storage. All rooms have a reclining chair and sofa that converts into a bed for guests.
Located on each unit, these spaces are equipped with lounges and kitchens for visitors and families to gather and relax right down the hall from their loved one.
Delicious, chef-prepared meals customized to your nutritional needs will be delivered three times daily. We will provide support for individuals who require assistance with meals and/or swallowing as well as consider your own personal dietary needs.
Your schedule will be displayed on the TV in your room and will change daily. Each day will begin with a visit from your doctor. Three hours of intensive therapy will be incorporated into your schedule Monday through Friday based on your individual care plan. Your schedule may include physical, occupational, speech, recreational, respiratory, and/or music therapy in addition to other services such as rehab psychology, support groups, and education classes. All therapy is tailored to your goals and interests and intensity increases gradually to enhance outcomes.
Once a week, members of your care team will visit you, or “round,” to discuss your overall progress and answer any questions you or your loved ones may have.
Our nurses provide 24/7 care and can be reached using the call bell in your room. Self-care tasks such as grooming and bathing are typically incorporated into occupational therapy, or your nursing team may assist you.
Visitors are welcome every day between 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. All visitors must check in at the front desk. One adult visitor per patient is welcome to spend the night in the patient’s room. Visitors age 18 and under are welcome to visit during visiting hours but must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Ample parking is available in front of the hospital.
We have relationships with several nearby hotels, some of which offer discounted rates, and The Doorways, another local nonprofit that provides lodging for out-of-town family members whose loved ones are currently receiving medical care.
CLICK HERE to view our frequently asked questions, including accepted insurance plans
• All medical insurance cards, including Medicare and Medicaid
• Picture ID
• A copy of your advance directives and/or power of attorney documents
• Comfortable clothing
• Shoes with a back and rubber soles such as tennis shoes
• Eyeglasses and/or contact lenses
• Hearing aids
• Dentures
• Body support braces
• Prosthetic device(s)
• Home medical supplies/equipment
• Valuables
• Drugs and alcohol
• Weapons
• Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes
• Medications, unless specified by care team
Our physical rehab experts will collaborate with you to create a plan tailored to your specific needs. We ensure that you have the training, education, and support you need to feel confident about transitioning to independence.
CARE MANAGERS help you plan and coordinate your discharge, from connecting you with community resources to helping navigate your next steps in recovery
CHAPLAINS offer spiritual support to help aid in the healing process
EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGISTS assess your fitness level and customize exercise training to improve your physical fitness and overall health
help patients relearn walking and related ambulatory skills through individualized care and innovative technology
MUSIC THERAPISTS use music and its elements such as rhythm, melody, and tempo to address and improve communication skills, physical or cognitive impairments, and social/emotional needs
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS
assist you with activities of daily living such as dressing, cooking, and grooming to promote independence
PHARMACISTS can answer any questions you may have related to your medications and help plan for discharge to ensure you can access the medications you need
PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION PHYSICIANS assess, develop, and monitor your care plan
PHYSICAL THERAPISTS focus on increasing your strength and mobility and reducing pain
REGISTERED DIETITIANS assess your nutritional needs and provide counseling to help fuel your recovery and make healthy choices after discharge
REHAB NURSES provide 24/7 care and are directly involved in every aspect of your recovery, including medication management and bowel/bladder training
REHAB PSYCHOLOGISTS help you adjust to the new realities that an illness or injury can present
RESEARCH SCIENTISTS discover and analyze new approaches and evidencebased practices to lead to better outcomes in functional recovery
RESPIRATORY THERAPISTS perform chest exams and treatments to improve breathing and lung capacity
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS develop plans to treat cognition, communication, voice, and swallowing impairments
THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPECIALISTS help you return to, or learn new, favorite leisure activities and connect you with community resources and peer mentors
UPPER-EXTREMITY SPECIALISTS restore movement and functional ability of the upper extremities to maximize arm and hand rehabilitation
Our wheelchair clinic provides customized seating and mobility services related to each person’s needs. Your care team will refer you to the clinic to determine what type of device you may need and construct a demo to discover what works best for you.
Equipment adjustments are made throughout inpatient rehab to reflect functional changes. Caregivers are also provided education and training on how to use and transport the equipment.
The MyLife Room is a space designed in collaboration with the Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) that houses assistive technology devices to promote independence after returning home. You can receive education, ask questions, and practice with the devices alongside trained staff. VATS can loan you devices and provide follow-up education at home.
Medical conditions and trauma frequently necessitate radiology services such as fluoroscopies, x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans. By conducting these tests internally or coordinating a visit off site, we can expedite tests and results so patients can continue moving forward with their healing journey.
Through our partnerships with several industry-leading vendors, we help our patients obtain custom prosthetic and orthotic devices while in our care or following graduation from rehab. Our vendors collaborate with your care team and visit you at Sheltering Arms Institute to provide the right device to help you achieve your goals, whether that’s a prefabricated brace or customized upper or lower-extremity prostheses. Once you receive your device, you will have continued contact with your vendor for ongoing maintenance and adjustments.
Integrating research into your care plan is an important component to implement the latest advances in rehabilitation. Our clinical research committee assesses clinical trials and research studies with the goal of providing new and additional resources to our patients to improve health and function. As one of our patients, you may be invited to participate in research studies, but can always decline participation.
Meet Teddy! In 2022, Teddy had his appendix removed. After the surgery, he became septic, which led to the loss of all four of his limbs, multiple wound infections, and kidney failure. He spent six months in acute and long-term care facilities before coming to Sheltering Arms Institute in June 2023 for his first round of inpatient rehab. In February of 2024, through our limb loss readmission program, Teddy returned for a second inpatient stay with us to learn how to use and navigate his prostheses.
During his inpatient stay, Teddy’s therapists guided him through essential activities of daily living, such as brushing his teeth, getting dressed, and using his prostheses. They also helped him adjust to a new way of life, including mastering how to sit and stand safely, get in and out of a car, and navigate stairs. Throughout his stay, a prosthetist worked closely with Teddy to ensure his prostheses were properly fitted and functioning.
Teddy reflects on his rehabilitation journey with an appreciation for his care team’s unwavering support. “I had the right therapists, and I really needed them to push me some days because it was tough going from an able-bodied person to losing all of your limbs.” Teddy’s advice to others is to persevere through the toughest moments. “Don’t quit. Don’t give up. Just keep fighting and keep pushing.”
Caregivers are encouraged to participate in their loved one’s rehab, including training sessions. We offer programs to teach caregivers skills and techniques to care for themselves while caring for a loved one, including how to reduce stress, manage and set goals, and access community resources while providing support for any special care required after leaving inpatient rehab.
Community engagement specialists will connect you with resources that you may need outside of our hospital, whether now or in the future. Some of our community partners include the Brain Injury Association of Virginia, RAMPS, Sportable, United Spinal Association of Virginia, and more.
Our community partners visit Sheltering Arms Institute to mentor patients throughout their stay to ensure they have, or are connected with, needed resources before returning to the community.
CLICK HERE to learn more about our community partners
Interpreters are available for more than 240 languages, 24 hours a day, at no cost to you via a phone or video call. If a patient or family member needs the assistance of a language or sign language interpreter, please speak with any member of your care team to make the necessary arrangements.
Our peer mentors and support groups connect former and current patients who have experienced similar challenges to offer support, strength, techniques, and guidance by sharing ideas and stories of hope.
We have a dedicated hospital teacher through the Richmond Hospital Education Program to help patients who are school age stay on track with schoolwork.
Meet Maddie! In September 2023, Maddie was in a car accident and experienced a spinal cord injury that left her with no feeling or movement from the waist down. After undergoing back surgery to have rods placed in her spine, she spent one month in inpatient rehabilitation at Sheltering Arms Institute.
She then transitioned to our intensive outpatient therapy program to continue her progress. With the dedicated support of her physical and occupational therapists, Maddie focused on regaining her strength, balance, and mobility with the goal of returning to her passion: caring for her animals. Throughout her recovery journey, Maddie progressed from requiring maximum assistance from her therapists to walking independently.
As part of our continuum of care, Maddie was referred to the PowerEx program at Sheltering Arms, one of our community partners, upon completing therapy. This fitness program helped her transition to independent exercise.
When reflecting on her rehabilitation journey, Maddie says she is proud of how far she pushed herself. “Seeing where I came from — just laying in a bed, unable to move anything — to now being able to move what I want makes me feel really good,” she recalled.
CLICK HERE to watch Maddie’s patient story video
INPATIENT REHAB
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
OUTPATIENT REHAB
FITNESS & WELLNESS
Sheltering Arms Institute offers a full range of outpatient therapy custom designed for you. Outpatient therapy can help you continue your progress after graduation from inpatient rehab or can be the starting point of recovery for less severe injuries or illnesses. We provide a seamless transition in your recovery journey by communicating with your care team prior to beginning outpatient therapy.
Sheltering Arms Institute has 8 locations across Central Virginia.
Our outpatient centers house much of the same advanced technology that is utilized in our inpatient hospital. This provides you the opportunity to continue using many of the same devices as you progress in your recovery to achieve the best outcome.
CLICK HERE to see our cutting-edge technology in action
After completing outpatient rehab, our patients show marked improvements in endurance, strength, core stability, and balance.
Adapt2Fit is a one-on-one program that offers versatile exercise programming to improve function and quality of life and slow disease progression
Adaptive recreation helps individuals return to leisure activities such as golfing, fishing, bowling, and horseback riding through the use of modifications and specialized equipment, if needed
Aquatic and land-based fitness classes focus on improving cardiorespiratory fitness and social engagement in a group setting
Club Rec is an adult day recreation program that provides supervised
Through our partnership with Sheltering Arms, our certified exercise physiologists and recreational therapists offer a full range of community programs to empower people of all abilities to embrace an active and fulfilling life. For fitness, recreation, and wellness inquiries, please call (804) 764-5275 or visit ShelteringArms.com.
social, recreational, and wellness activities, promotes healthy living, and enhances quality of life
Community engagement programs include Matter of Balance and disease-specific self-management courses
Fitness and pool memberships provide opportunities for independent exercise in an accessible environment
NeuroFit is an exercise-based program that utilizes advanced technology for individuals with neurological conditions
PowerEx is a semi-supervised exercise program that empowers a healthy lifestyle, behavior change, and independent exercise for all ability levels
Special events include sporting, recreational, and social events to provide participants opportunities to socialize with others while enjoying their favorite leisure activities
Support groups help you and your caregiver learn ways to adapt to your situation from specialists and peers
Philanthropy has helped propel Sheltering Arms Institute to one of the nation’s top physical rehabilitation providers and #1 in Virginia. Unrestricted annual giving provides vital financial support to the Margin of Excellence. These unique programs along with advanced technology in the hands of our exceptional team members—neither regularly covered by insurers—differentiate Sheltering Arms Institute from typical physical rehab operations, ultimately leading to enhanced outcomes and experiences for patients and caregivers.
Clinical Science & Research
Community Engagement
Fitness,
Patient
2000 Wilkes Ridge Drive
VA 23233
206 Twinridge Lane Richmond, VA 23235
12220 Iron Bridge Road Suite C Chester, VA 23831
8226 Meadowbridge Road Mechanicsville, VA 23116
