Ann Stirlen

Ann chose MRRH to recover from vertigo and a concussion sustained in a fall at home

Ann Stirlen is a lady that has always been full of life. Ann is a proud former ballerina, having performed with the Metropolitan Opera and the San Francisco Ballet Company. Now, Ann enjoys supporting animal rescue and doing her part to make sure the environment is clean and safe.

One day at home, Ann fell and hit her head. Initially, Ann didn’t seem to be injured. But a week later, Ann became very dizzy when getting out of bed. She couldn’t get up, walk, or move at all without the support of one or two others. At this point, Ann admitted to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a concussion.

After a couple of days, Ann transferred to Midlands Regional Rehabilitation Hospital (MRRH). Upon arriving at MRRH, Ann underwent an evaluation. Her evaluation included vestibular positional testing performed by a certified neurologic specialist. The testing resulted in a diagnosis of BPPV, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. BPPV occurs when crystals in the inner ear are displaced and send messages to the brain that the head is spinning.

The team at MRRH got to work treating Ann using specific head and body movements to reposition the crystals. After just two treatment sessions, Ann no longer experienced dizziness, and her BPPV was resolved. She discharged home at an independent level and plans to continue working on her recovery through the outpatient services department at MRRH.

Ann couldn’t be more pleased with her experience at MRRH. “Upon arriving, the vibe was so welcoming and calming,” she noted. “Every staff member, no matter their position, had been so kind, helpful, and comforting. I have been to multiple hospitals in my life, but I have never been to one like this, where the environment was upbeat and relaxing at the same time. I felt nothing but love and safety while here. I believe all of it has been key to my speedy recovery. I will be recommending everyone I know to Midlands Regional Rehabilitation Hospital.”