The Privilege of Robotic Rehabilitation at ACIBADEM HEALTHCARE GROUP

Robotic rehabilitation is a treatment method used to improve a variety of brain and neurological conditions, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, paralysis following brain tumor surgery, balance and gait disorders, rehabilitation following orthopedic surgery, and nerve damage. Each of these conditions requires an individualized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s unique needs.

Meet Technology

Robotic rehabilitation provides a precise, intensive and personalized approach that helps improve patients’ functional independence and quality of life. Due to the versatility of robotic systems, which offer unique opportunities to accelerate recovery, improve functional outcomes and promote neuroplasticity by providing targeted therapy, real-time feedback and advanced safety measures, and their potential to revolutionise traditional rehabilitation methods, Acıbadem Healthcare Group is a beacon of hope for patients seeking to regain their independence and quality of life through robotic rehabilitation.
Located in the heart of Istanbul, the Acibadem Robotic Rehabilitation Center epitomizes innovation in healthcare. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, including weight-bearing systems, advanced robotics, and virtual reality tools, it fosters the recovery of various functions. Backed by Acıbadem Healthcare Group‘s expertise, it offers comprehensive treatment, extending world-renowned services globally. With a focus on swift recovery, the center provides tailored programs for patients with brain and nerve injuries, leveraging innovative approaches and intensive therapy led by experienced specialists.

Robotic Devices at Rehabilitations

Robotic rehabilitation uses robotic devices and technologies to improve various bodily functions and restore lost abilities.

Walking Rehabilitation: Walking rehabilitation is provided to patients with movement restrictions due to paralysis, spinal cord injury or other neurological disorders, using devices such as Lokomat. The Lokomat Pro model used in our clinic also has a Pediatric Modul that provides gait rehabilitation for children.
Upper Extremity Rehabilitation: Armeo Springs, designed to strengthen arm and shoulder muscles and increase range of motion, are used in upper extremity rehabilitation.
Balance and Coordination Rehabilitation: Devices such as the CMill VR+ are used for patients who have difficulty with balance and coordination. This device uses virtual reality and real-time feedback technologies to help patients improve their balance skills and become more independent in daily activities.
Hand and Finger Rehabilitation: Amadeo, designed for finger rehabilitation, is used to strengthen finger muscles, increase flexibility and improve hand control.
Spasticity Management: Spasticity is a condition characterized by muscle stiffness and loss of control and can be seen in several neurological disorders. Robotic devices help reduce spasticity and relax muscles.
Infusion and needle treatments: Robotic systems at our center help to effectively administer medications such as Botulinum Toxin to reduce muscle spasms and pain.
Our center also offers occupational therapy, speech therapy, swallowing therapy, and gait analysis.

A day in Acibadem Robotic Rehabilitation Center

After breakfast, our physical therapy session starts at 09:00. At 10:00, we move on to robotic walking training using Locomat Pro or C-mill VR Plus systems. Electrotherapy is applied an hour later. After the lunch break at 12:00, Respiratory Therapy is performed. Robotic finger training using the Amadeo system begins at 14:00, followed by robotic hand-arm training with Armeo Spring at 15:00. Occupational therapy and speech therapy/physiotherapy sessions begin at 16:00 and last one hour each. The day ends with dinner served at 18:00.

Personalized Treatment and Support

The process from application to completion of treatment at Acıbadem is a seamless journey designed to prioritize patient care and satisfaction. First, patients can easily request a medical consultation via email, phone or the hospital’s website. Next, their medical history is meticulously reviewed by our physicians, who then propose a customized treatment plan. Our dedicated team of professionals carefully plans the patient’s healthcare journey according to their needs and expectations, with a focus on addressing any insurance concerns. Throughout the treatment process, patients receive unparalleled hospitality, with an Acıbadem representative accompanying them during all medical transfers. The treatment itself uses the latest medical technology and is supported by an expert team, ensuring that patients feel safe and well cared for. Finally, the journey concludes with a thorough follow-up, during which an Acıbadem representative reviews the patient’s progress and offers assistance with any lingering issues, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care from start to finish.

Journey to the Future

At the heart of the ACIBADEM ROBOTIC REHABILITATION CENTER is a commitment to collaboration and personalization. Therapists, nurses and physicians work in harmony to create customized treatment plans that adapt to each patient’s evolving needs, fostering a nurturing environment where each individual can thrive.
At this beacon of innovation and excellence, the journey to recovery is not just a destination, but a transformative experience, guided by the relentless pursuit of healing and the boundless possibilities of modern medicine. Welcome to the future of rehabilitation at Acıbadem Healthcare Group, where hope springs eternal and every step forward is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.

Contact us for free second medical opinion:

https://acibademinternational.com/

Zemen Bank Expands Reach with Dutch Businesses Partnership

Zemen Bank expands its network with over 75 Dutch businesses operating in Ethiopia, signing an associate membership agreement with their lobby group last week.

According to Asrat Tadesse, from Zemen Bank, the partnership is expected to prop Ethiopian Netherlands Business Association members with innovative financial products while expanding the reach of the institution. He noted Zemen’s successful alliances with both domestic and international companies in horticulture, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.

Founded in 2013 under the auspices of the Dutch Embassy, the Association represents over 75 Dutch businesses operating in Ethiopia, including 17 flower exporters.

The agreement was signed with Hayo Hamster, board chairman of the Association, at the Bank’s headquarters on Ras Abebe Aregay St. Zemen Bank has solidified its presence in the financial industry since 2008 with strong performance. During the 2022/23 fiscal year, the Bank’s capital and non-distributable reserves increased by 37.4pc to 7.13 billion Br, while its profit grew by 22.3pc to 1.81 billion Br. Zemen’s loan and deposit portfolios have also expanded with total loans and advances reaching 31.39 billion Br, representing a growth of 48.6pc, while total deposits increased by 38pc to 37 billion Br.

Wegagen Bank Unveils Global Prepaid Visa Card

Customers of Wegagen Bank are set to make cashless payments globally at ATMs and point-of-sale (POS) terminals, as the Bank introduces an international prepaid Visa card.

Yared Endale, country manager of Visa Inc., underscored the Visa card’s role in expanding access to international financial services and promoting economic inclusion.

Officials from Tigray Regional State, and executives from VISA Inc. and Wegagen Bank unveiled the new service in Meqelle City last week. Solomon Tesfaye, deputy CEO of Technology at Wegagen Bank, emphasised the card’s value in facilitating online e-commerce transactions and providing a convenient alternative for sending money from abroad.

Established in 1997, Wegagen Bank has experienced substantial growth, with total assets reaching 53.49 billion Br in the 2022/23 fiscal year. Its paid-up capital and net profit also saw increases during this period.

VISA Inc. recently teamed with Ethio Telecom to launch a wallet-based virtual Visa card called ‘Telebirr Remit’. This service aims to enhance international money transfer remittance services using a Telebirr virtual card number.

Italy, UNOPS Ink 1.5m Deal to Revamp Tigray Hospital

A 1.5 million euro project agreement to re-establish the healthcare services at Suhul Hospital in Tigray Regional State was signed last week. The project is expected to benefit over 18,000 people through the procurement of medical equipment to improve diagnostic, therapeutic, and patient-monitoring capabilities.

Financed by the Government of Italy and UNOPS Ethiopia, the project also aims to provide training on operation and maintenance services to the medical personnel serving in the hospital.

Agostino Palese, Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia, said while enhancing the healthcare service for the benefit of vulnerable communities, his country reaffirms its determination to contribute to the enhancement of the region’s health sector by increasing its capacity.

Suhul Hospital serves as a critical healthcare provider in the Northwestern Zone of Tigray, offering a wide range of medical services. Worknesh Mekonnen, director of the multi-regional office of UNOPS in Ethiopia, noted the required work to increase the Hospital’s ability to provide quality care.

Takaful Gains Ground in Ethiopia’s Insurance Market

A two-day international forum in Addis Abeba brought together experts from around the world to discuss the prospects and perils facing the growing interest-free banking industry in Africa.

Discussions focused on the regulatory landscape of Islamic finance in Africa, investment opportunities in interest-free banking, the role of Takaful (Islamic insurance) in financial inclusion, and the impact of Islamic fintech innovations on the African market.

Hassan Mohammed, state minister of Industry, highlighted the risk-sharing nature of interest-free financial instruments, which can help mitigate systemic risks and reduce the likelihood of financial crises.

Organised by the AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking & Economics, the 5th International Interest-Free Banking & Takaful Forum aimed to stimulate dialogue and promote the development of interest-free finance on the continent.

Muhammad Zubair, CEO of AlHuda, expressed optimism about Africa’s potential to become a major hub for interest-free finance, and Ethiopia’s prospect for leading the transformation.

Ethiopia’s Takaful insurance market had a share of 127 million Br (nearly 4.5 million dollars) two years ago, representing less than one percent of the total gross written premiums of the industry. While a few Ethiopian insurance companies offer Takaful services, the market is still relatively underdeveloped, with a focus on Wakalah-based products and limited offerings for family Takaful.

Railway Corp Launches Construction Unit for Regional Road Project

The financial issues of Ethiopian Railway Corporation (ERC) are expected to be addressed as it establishes a new construction business unit. This initiative will focus on the maintenance of a 60Km road stretch in Oromia Regional State, connecting the towns of Robe, Gasera, and Ginir in eastern Bale Zone.

The Corporation has partnered with IDCON Infrastructure Development Consultant Plc for consulting services for the project, expected to be fully finished by the end of the fiscal year. To undertake this construction work, ERC has obtained a first-grade contractor license from the Ethiopian Construction Authority. It has secured the contract four months ago, valued at 249 million Br, from the Ethiopian Roads Administration. The Corporation has also secured licenses for design and consulting services related to building, bridge, and highway construction.

ERC, which falls under the Public Enterprises & Holding Agency, has been wrestling with marked financial issues with its debts ballooning to 126pc of its capital. According to the statement, diversification of services is aimed at mitigating the financial pressures the corporation has faced in recent years. The establishment of the new construction unit is seen as a crucial step towards improving the Corporation’s financial health and sustainability.

URBAN OASIS

A father shares a quiet moment with his child amidst the rapid growth of Addis Abeba. In just 20 years, the city’s population has doubled to five million, reflecting a broader trend across Africa. As the city expands, plans are underway to invest heavily in urban development, aiming to balance economic growth with improved quality of life for its residents.

WINTER BLUES

A painting around Qera represents the cattle market nearby. The legendary Qera field is capable of accommodating up to 20,000 cattle. The winter season presents frustration for the vendors in the area as their herd suffers from joint pain from the cold, ultimately decreasing prices. With the New Year around the corner, prices are expected to surge fetching up to 300,000 Br for a single ox.

DRIP ECONOMICS

A modest eatery around Bihere Tsige fills up a water tanker from a supplier. Addis Abeba’s residents face daily water shortages, with the city’s authority supplying only 60pc of the 1.2 million cubic meters needed daily. This shortfall has created a lucrative opportunity for truck owners, who deliver directly to homes and businesses.

70.2pc

The share of schools in the Somali Regional State that fall below the established standards (Level-1), drastically higher compared to the national average of 12.1pc. The disproportionate percentage indicates a systemic failure in the educational framework of the Somali region, possibly due to poor infrastructure, inadequate staffing, and limited access to educational resources.

Breaking the Cycle of Silence

The tragic murder of Heaven Awot (Feven in the court files) has left the community in deep mourning. The cruelty inflicted upon her is deeply disturbing, underlining the urgent need for justice.

It is especially troubling to see attempts by the perpetrator’s family and acquaintances to shield him from accountability on social media. Just as a doctor must make difficult decisions to save a life, society must ensure that those who commit serious crimes face the consequences, regardless of personal connections.

There is an unsettling irony in how families can be torn apart by disputes over material wealth but usually close ranks to protect a member who has committed a crime. This sends a dangerous message that loyalty to family should override justice, even in the face of unimaginable harm.

Heaven’s story has prompted an outpouring of grief and calls for action on social media, with many hoping that justice will be served. However, communities are afraid to speak out or organise peaceful protests due to fears of repercussions. The sad reality is, a gathering to mourn the little girl, condemn the brutal rape and murder and ask the justice system to review the 25-year sentence was abruptly ended by the police, at Elili Hotel last week.

But the need for collective action against such crimes remains urgent.

Reports of similar cases, including incidents involving young children and the lenient punishments that some perpetrators receive, highlight a troubling pattern that needs urgent attention. The stories of victims, past and present, remind us that these issues are far from resolved.

It was heartening to see many people standing with the mother, showing that there is still a strong sense of justice and compassion in the community. Everyone must uphold the principles of protecting, respecting, and valuing women and children. This is a lesson that must be taught and upheld in all aspects of life.

As a society, we must confront these acts of violence against children and women. What measures are appropriate to ensure their safety and justice?

This is a question that demands serious consideration.

To combat sexual violence and protect vulnerable populations, strengthening legal frameworks with stricter penalties, fast-tracking legal processes, and training law enforcement to handle cases sensitively are crucial first steps. Providing support services for victims, such as safe spaces, counselling, and hotlines, ensures survivors receive the care they need. Public awareness campaigns, community vigilance programs, and educational initiatives can cultivate a culture of prevention and empathy, while also empowering women and girls through economic opportunities and self-defense training.

Addressing online abuse and harmful content, promoting digital literacy, and encouraging responsible social media use is vital in combating the rise of online threats. Engaging men and boys in conversations about positive masculinity and respect for women is equally important.

There should be legal procedures in place to deal with cases of threats of violence spread in the social media especially like those made against vulnerable children and women.

Together, these actions can create a safer and more just society, where women and children are protected and supported, and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.

The distressing stories of violence in places that should be safe, like hospitals, further illustrate the pervasive nature of the problem. The disturbing presence of harmful content on social media, including comments that incite violence, underscores the need for stronger legal measures to prevent such behaviour. It is unacceptable to see individuals expressing vile intentions online without consequence.

Laws must be enacted to address these threats seriously, protecting society from those who seek to cause harm. The rising cases of paedophilia and violence against young boys and girls should be a national concern. While some individuals and groups continue to advocate for justice and protection, the current environment requires a collective effort to foster a safe and humane society.