# Individual and Effective Rehabilitation in Switzerland

> The project workers of KUNTOS project visited Switzerland in late 2022 to study rehabilitation practices and education with local professionals.

## Introduction
Between November 30 and December 5, 2022, project workers from the KUNTOS project visited Switzerland to meet with rehabilitation professionals and discuss their experiences in the field. The visit focused on two primary institutions: the Swiss Paraplegia Center and the Rehazentrum in Valens.

## Swiss Paraplegia Center
The [Swiss Paraplegia Center](https://www.paraplegie.ch/spz/en/) is a globally recognized facility specializing in the institutional rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injuries. It serves as both a national and international training hub for spinal cord disabled athletes.

### Rehabilitation Philosophy
*   **ICF-Model:** The center utilizes the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) model.
*   **Learning by Doing:** The center emphasizes practical training, coaching patients for life after injury.
*   **Individual Responsibility:** Professionals assist in achieving quality of life, but the center maintains that the individual is responsible for their own happiness.
*   **Goal Setting:** Rehabilitation typically lasts six to nine months. Patients set personal goals, which are reviewed bi-weekly to ensure they remain realistic.

### Training and Methodology
*   **Kinesthetics:** A central method used to assist patients with movement and transitions.
*   **Comprehensive Education:** Training covers bowel and bladder functions, nutrition, medication, skin care, pain management, breathing, and sexuality.
*   **Digital Integration:** Patients use standardized digital materials to study topics independently, supplemented by individual and group practical sessions (e.g., practicing bus transfers or navigating different terrains).
*   **Emerging Challenges:** The center is currently addressing the needs of an aging population, those injured at a young age who are now growing older, and the rehabilitation of patients with Long COVID.

## Rehazentrum in Valens
The [Rehazentrum in Valens](https://www.rehazentrum-valens.ch/) is part of a group of five clinics known for their scenic locations and historical ties to spa culture and hydrotherapy.

### Clinical Approach
*   **Patient Demographics:** The clinic treats patients of all ages with musculoskeletal and neurological diseases, with a majority of rehabilitators being women.
*   **Kinesthetics for Families:** The clinic trains family members in kinesthetic principles. Relatives perform the same transition exercises as the patient to gain a physical understanding of how to provide effective, safe assistance.
*   **Holistic Reflection:** The "learning by doing" approach emphasizes the patient's own reflection during exercises, acknowledging the mental component of physical training.

### Research and Innovation
The clinic actively conducts research funded by external sources. Key research themes include:
*   Aging and rehabilitation
*   Cardiovascular system rehabilitation
*   Technology and rehabilitation
*   Gaming as a therapy method
*   HIIT training for patients with back pain

## Conclusion
Both centers prioritize customer-oriented, comprehensive rehabilitation. The core of their success lies in placing the rehabilitator’s learning and active participation at the center of the process.

***

**Author:**
Marja Äijö, TtT, principal lecturer in gerontology and rehabilitation, Savonia University of Applied Sciences.