Former professor regains strength at Life Care of Banner Elk after COVID

Janice Rienerth is a retired professor of sociology at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, and now also a COVID-19 survivor.

When Janice acquired COVID in July, she survived but was weak and wasn’t quite prepared to go home yet.

She came to Life Care Center of Banner Elk, North Carolina, on Aug. 2, 2021, needing moderate assistance with walking and some assistance with bed mobility, getting in and out of bed, standing balance, hygiene tasks, bathing and dressing. Physical and occupational therapy provided the stepping stone in care that she needed to regain her independence.

Janice had pre-existing plantar fasciitis, which caused her pain in addition to the weakness she was experiencing post-COVID.

“We were able to help her with that using manual techniques and stretching and education on self-care,” shared Elizabeth Goode, director of rehabilitation.

In addition, therapists used the Biodex balance training equipment, core exercises and hip and leg exercises to improve Janice’s level of mobility and function.

“Therapy made me stronger and more confident,” Janice shared. “I can now walk up stairs, and my feet feel better from my plantar fasciitis. Occupational therapy taught me how to manage daily tasks like doing laundry downstairs. Physical therapy helped me with strength and home exercises.”

Just 18 days after her arrival, Janice was able to return home with outpatient therapy.