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Rehabilitation after Stroke at Cereneo
Bespoke neurorehabilitation so you can return to your real life
All You Want to Know:
Prof. Dr Andreas Luft
Medical Director Cereneo
Our team takes the time to understand your individual needs and goals and we work with you every step of your recovery journey.
Neurological Rehabilitation after Stroke at Cereneo
Cereneo offers comprehensive neurological rehabilitation after stroke. At cereneo commitment to excellence goes beyond conventional methods, combining cutting -edge techniques with a personal touch, continuously pushing the boundaries of neurorehabilitation.
The idyllic and peaceful location on the shore of Lake Lucerne supports patients in focusing on their recovery and regaining strength
The idyllic and peaceful location on the shore of Lake Lucerne supports patients in focusing on their recovery and regaining strength
Stroke Recovery at Cereneo
A stroke is a critical medical emergency caused by a sudden interruption in blood flow to the brain. It can strike at any age and demands immediate medical intervention. While many stroke survivors experience long-term impairments, studies show that early and intensive rehabilitation significantly improves the chances of regaining independence. Cereneo’s mission is to help patients recover lost functions and reclaim the aspects of life that matter most.
Cereneo’s team of neurologists, along with specialists in movement, speech, swallowing, and cognitive therapy, tailor a high-intensity, personalized rehabilitation program aimed at restoring function - not just adapting to disability. Our holistic, science-based approach is further supported by experts in nutrition and skilled rehabilitation nurses, all working together to promote recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
Cereneo’s team of neurologists, along with specialists in movement, speech, swallowing, and cognitive therapy, tailor a high-intensity, personalized rehabilitation program aimed at restoring function - not just adapting to disability. Our holistic, science-based approach is further supported by experts in nutrition and skilled rehabilitation nurses, all working together to promote recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
If stroke symptoms are recognized early and treatment begins within four hours, it may be possible to reopen the blocked blood vessel and prevent long-term brain damage. After the acute phase, patients should be monitored in a specialized Stroke Unit to avoid further complications and determine the underlying cause. This phase typically lasts a few days.
If the blockage cannot be reversed, rehabilitation must begin immediately—starting with essential functions like safe swallowing and sitting up. As the patient stabilizes, therapy intensifies.
If the blockage cannot be reversed, rehabilitation must begin immediately—starting with essential functions like safe swallowing and sitting up. As the patient stabilizes, therapy intensifies.
Specialized centers like cereneo are dedicated to this crucial window of recovery. The first few months after a stroke offer the greatest opportunity to restore functions like mobility, speech, and cognitive abilities. Delaying rehabilitation can make recovery significantly harder.
Stroke Treatment: Time Matters
When it comes to stroke, every minute counts
The sooner neurorehabilitation begins, the better the chances of recovery
Your online doctor's consultation
Online doctor's consultation with Prof. Dr Meret Branscheidt
€300 EUR
Dr Meret Branscheidt, Medical Director at cereneo since April 2021, is a neurologist with extensive experience. She emphasizes early rehabilitation as crucial for regaining function after neurological events. Dr. Branscheidt leverages an international medical network. She speaks English and German.
30 min
Web conferencing details provided upon confirmation
Get answers to questions that arise after a stroke, accident or any other neurological incident in a 30-minute online consultation
Find out about your different options for your recovery
Get a second opinion even if you are already undergoing neurological treatment
Receive information on where and how to get the best rehabilitation to fit your personal needs and circumstances
Get a recommendation on how to start or advance your rehabilitation to maximise your health and recovery
What Does Recovery Involve?
Optimal recovery is most achievable in the early weeks following a stroke. However, even at later stages, intensive inpatient rehabilitation can lead to meaningful improvements. At Cereneo, programs are fully customized and involve multiple therapy sessions per day, targeting every area affected.
The focus is on restoring natural functions - such as walking or speaking - rather than teaching patients to compensate with tools or workarounds. A comprehensive assessment helps determine which abilities can realistically be recovered, for example, walking without aids instead of using a wheelchair or walker.
The focus is on restoring natural functions - such as walking or speaking - rather than teaching patients to compensate with tools or workarounds. A comprehensive assessment helps determine which abilities can realistically be recovered, for example, walking without aids instead of using a wheelchair or walker.
At cereneo, the medical team is here to support you through every stage of your recovery journey.
Factors for a good rehabilitation
Acute Care Hospital at Home
• Acute Phase:
Focus is on stabilizing the individual's medical condition, preventing complications and beginning basic therapeutic interventions
Focus is on stabilizing the individual's medical condition, preventing complications and beginning basic therapeutic interventions
Rehabilitation Center Cereneo
• Early Intervention:
Starting rehabilitation as soon as possible after a stroke is crucial
• Multidisciplinary Approach:
Stroke rehabilitation typically involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals
• Individualized Treatment Plan:
Each stroke survivor is unique and the rehabilitation plan should be tailored to their specific needs and goals
• Supportive Environment:
Plays a crucial role in stroke rehabilitation and has a major impact on the motivation and thus recovery of patients
Starting rehabilitation as soon as possible after a stroke is crucial
• Multidisciplinary Approach:
Stroke rehabilitation typically involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals
• Individualized Treatment Plan:
Each stroke survivor is unique and the rehabilitation plan should be tailored to their specific needs and goals
• Supportive Environment:
Plays a crucial role in stroke rehabilitation and has a major impact on the motivation and thus recovery of patients
At Home after Cereneo
• Long-Term Management:
Stroke rehabilitation is an ongoing process and patients may continue to benefit from therapy and support also after an inpatient rehabilitation
Stroke rehabilitation is an ongoing process and patients may continue to benefit from therapy and support also after an inpatient rehabilitation
Causes and Risk Factors of Stroke
Common stroke risk factors include:
Strokes can happen to anyone, but the likelihood increases with age and is heavily influenced by lifestyle. Statistically, women face a slightly higher risk—primarily due to longer life expectancy.
- High blood pressure
- Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Poor diet (especially high in fat and salt)
- Undiagnosed heart rhythm disorders
- Excessive alcohol use
- Physical inactivity
- Chronic stress
- Atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm irregularities
- Migraine with aura
- Use of hormonal contraceptives (e.g., the pill)
Additional risk factors for women:
Non-binding free consultation now (15 minutes)
Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Your path to renewed health and well-being starts with just one call or click. Discover the exceptional care and refined experience that make Cereneo truly unique.
Write us on WhatsApp +41 76 266 1457 or leave a request:
FAQ about Stroke Rehab at Cereneo
Cereneo offers a unique blend of cutting-edge neurorehabilitation and top-tier hospitality.
We provide highly personalized, science-based therapy in a luxurious, 4- or 5-star environment. Our goal is to help each patient achieve the greatest level of independence possible. Support doesn’t end when your inpatient stay does - we continue your care at home through in-person therapy or online rehabilitation with our cereneo Home team.
We provide highly personalized, science-based therapy in a luxurious, 4- or 5-star environment. Our goal is to help each patient achieve the greatest level of independence possible. Support doesn’t end when your inpatient stay does - we continue your care at home through in-person therapy or online rehabilitation with our cereneo Home team.
Throughout your inpatient rehabilitation, you’ll be supported by a team of specialists who work with you to achieve your personal recovery goals. Your therapy plan is customized and regularly reviewed to ensure maximum progress. A dedicated case manager is always on hand to make your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
- Initial Contact: You or your family reach out to us.
- Medical Review: We review your medical records with our clinical team, ensuring full privacy and data protection.
- Personalized Offer: Based on your medical needs and preferences, we prepare a customized treatment plan and cost estimate.
- Planning Your Stay: Once the offer is accepted, we organize your travel and accommodations.
- Arrival at cereneo: Your tailored neurorehabilitation program begins.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Your progress is continuously assessed by our team.
- Post-Discharge Support: We help you transition home and continue therapy—either in person or online - to maintain your recovery journey.
Our primary languages include English, German, Russian, Arabic, and French. For international patients, we offer bilingual administrative and translation services. Our multilingual team helps ensure that you and your family feel understood and supported. If needed, we can arrange for medical translators on-site or via phone at short notice.
Family and companions often stay nearby, such as at the Park Hotel Vitznau or Campus Hotel Hertenstein. Upon request, we can assist with alternative arrangements. For more details, feel free to contact us directly.
To evaluate your case, we need your full medical records. This includes reports, lab results, CT or MRI scans, etc. All data is handled with strict confidentiality. After we receive your information, we’ll send a patient questionnaire to gain deeper insights into your condition and needs.
Absolutely. Family involvement often plays a vital role in a patient’s motivation and recovery. We encourage loved ones to participate in therapy, visit, and support the patient - if the patient is comfortable with it. Our therapists also guide families on how to help once you return home.
Cereneo welcomes patients from all over the world. We strive to tailor your therapy plan to reflect your cultural, linguistic, and dietary preferences—ensuring you feel at home and respected throughout your stay.
We organize a variety of excursions and recreational activities for both patients and their companions. These may be leisure-oriented or designed as part of therapy. Whether you’re interested in cultural outings, light physical activities, or social experiences, we’re happy to accommodate your preferences.
Yes, we provide full support with organizing your journey to and from the clinic. Our team ensures everything is arranged for a smooth arrival and stay. You’ll be cared for by an interdisciplinary team including neurologists, therapists, nurses, nutritionists, engineers, researchers, and your personal case manager. After your inpatient stay, a Cereneo Home therapist can accompany you to continue your therapy at home.
Yes. Our case management team is experienced with visa processes and works closely with embassies to streamline applications and make your rehabilitation journey as hassle-free as possible.
Therapy typically begins at 8:30 AM, with individual sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your condition and endurance. All sessions are one-on-one and led by our highly qualified team, with close coordination from our neurologists.
While the minimum stay is 2 weeks, the duration depends on your progress and goals. On average, patients stay around 8 weeks. After discharge, you may continue your therapy with cereneo Home therapists or through online rehabilitation sessions.
No, all therapies are conducted one-on-one, ensuring full attention to your specific needs. If you're interested in group sessions, we can explore options, though due to our boutique clinic sizes (11 patients in Vitznau and 23 in Hertenstein), group sessions are uncommon.
Doctors are available 24/7. Routine rounds are conducted twice weekly, but additional appointments can be arranged anytime to discuss your treatment, progress, or concerns.
The Cereneo Treatment Concept
Neuropsychology
Neurologists
Movement therapy (PT/OT)
Nursing
Experts from all disciplines work hand in hand:
“We create progress” – in researching physiological processes and processes in the human brain, in developing new therapy methods and technical innovations, such as specialised robotic systems for our patients that move neurorehabilitation to the next level.
The basis of the cereneo treatment concept is the interdisciplinary team approach, where experts from all disciplines work hand in hand, taking the time to understand every patient’s specific needs and goals to develop the individual therapy plan.
Nutrition science
Psychological counselling
Rehabilitation engineering
Speech & language therapy
Facts About Cereneo
4.9
Average therapy sessions per patient & da
3.9
Patients per physician
33
Patients per year
175
Number of beds
Medical equipment
Patients have access to our motion lab with the CAREN and a robot-assisted therapy technology:
• Upper extremities: Amadeo, Armeo (ArmeoPower/ ArmeoSpring/ArmeoSenso), DIEGO, MYRO, PABLO
• Lower extremities: Allegro, BalanceMaster, Balancetutor, CAREN, C-Mill, Erigo, Erigo®Pro, Humac Norm, Hunova, Lokomat, OMEGO Plus, Sensopro, ZeroG
• Water therapy
• Driving simulator
• VR settings
• Upper extremities: Amadeo, Armeo (ArmeoPower/ ArmeoSpring/ArmeoSenso), DIEGO, MYRO, PABLO
• Lower extremities: Allegro, BalanceMaster, Balancetutor, CAREN, C-Mill, Erigo, Erigo®Pro, Humac Norm, Hunova, Lokomat, OMEGO Plus, Sensopro, ZeroG
• Water therapy
• Driving simulator
• VR settings
Services for international patients
• International patient office
• Spacious patient rooms
• Access to 4-star and 5-star hotel amenities
• Special meals/menus
• Accommodation for relatives
• Visa support
• Shuttle services
• Our staff speaks German, English, Spanish, French, Arabic
• Spacious patient rooms
• Access to 4-star and 5-star hotel amenities
• Special meals/menus
• Accommodation for relatives
• Visa support
• Shuttle services
• Our staff speaks German, English, Spanish, French, Arabic
Admission of International Patients
Our team will guide you through the entire admission process to Cereneo and will assist you with any questions regarding your stay at the clinic. At any point, you can schedule an online consultation with one of experienced neurologists to address uncertainties about your health or rehabilitation program.
1. Your First Contact
Submit the Request and we will contact You within 24 hours to verify your specific needs.
2. Your Personal Offer
After evaluation of your medical reports neurologist will develop a recommendation for the individual therapy.
3. Acceptance & Admission
After You accept the offer and costs coverage is provided we will organize your journey to Cereneo together with You.
4. Your arrival at Cereneo
You will be welcomed by patient relations team in clinic and after clinic tour you will meet the rest of Cereneo team and start your rehabilitation process.
Non-binding free consultation now (15 minutes)
Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Your path to renewed health and well-being starts with just one call or click. Discover the exceptional care and refined experience that make Cereneo truly unique.
Write us on WhatsApp +41 76 266 1457 or leave a request:
Cereneo & Medical Innovations
Clinical team employs the most current scientific findings, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced treatment modalities, such as robotics or virtual reality games, to support you effectively in achieving your rehabilitation objectives.
Furthermore, Cereneo engages in collaborative efforts with prominent universities in Europe and the USA. In partnership with the cereneo foundation, the Lake Lucerne Institute (LLUI), and the University of Zurich, we actively initiate and conduct our own neuroscientific studies. The goal of this research is to further advance the field of neurorehabilitation, establish objective and measurable standards, and explore new technologies designed to enhance therapy provided both at home and online.
Measuring Treatment Success
Each patient benefits from a fully personalized neurorehabilitation program. Progress is tracked at regular intervals using a standardized assessment protocol.
The interdisciplinary team—including neurologists, therapists, nurses, engineers, and researchers—uses these results to fine-tune therapies and adjust equipment according to the patient’s evolving needs. This adaptive approach promotes independence and enhances recovery.
By receiving continuous feedback on their improvement, patients stay motivated to push beyond their limits.
The interdisciplinary team—including neurologists, therapists, nurses, engineers, and researchers—uses these results to fine-tune therapies and adjust equipment according to the patient’s evolving needs. This adaptive approach promotes independence and enhances recovery.
By receiving continuous feedback on their improvement, patients stay motivated to push beyond their limits.
Online doctor's consultation with Dr Leopold Zizlsperger
€300 EUR
Dr Leopold Zizlsperger, Medical Director at cereneo since 2015, is dedicated to helping patients achieve maximum function and independence for an active, high-quality life. With training from German university hospitals and research at University Hospital Zurich, he strives to continually improve rehabilitation strategies. Dr. Zizlsperger speaks English and German.
30 min
Web conferencing details provided upon confirmation
Your online pre-assessment
Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation for Greater and Faster Recovery
Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is an innovative and safe treatment approach that increases excitability in targeted brain areas to improve language, movement, or attention. When combined with an intensive, personalized rehabilitation program, NIBS can enhance and accelerate recovery for various neurological conditions, such as stroke, spinal cord injuries, or deficits in language, attention, and movement.
There are two NIBS methods:
There are two NIBS methods:
- TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) – Uses a weak magnetic field to stimulate specific brain regions, typically administered just before therapy.
- tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation) – Applies gentle electrical currents to stimulate the brain during therapy sessions.
Innovation: Real-Time Assessment, Training & Feedback in a VR Environment with CAREN
CAREN is one of the world’s most advanced therapy systems. It integrates a multidirectional treadmill with 3D motion analysis and a virtual reality environment—all in real time. The CAREN system at cereneo is the first and only one in Switzerland capable of developing and testing fully customized training protocols tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals.
Treatment costs
The choice of accommodation (4-star clinic in Hertenstein or 5-star clinic in Vitznau)
Estimated costs for a one-month stay basing on previous cases:
Hertenstein: CHF 80,000 – 100,000 per month
Vitznau: CHF 90,000 – 120,000 per month
Estimated costs for a one-month stay basing on previous cases:
Hertenstein: CHF 80,000 – 100,000 per month
Vitznau: CHF 90,000 – 120,000 per month
- Alcohol and Drug Foundation. Inhalants (https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/inhalants/). Last published 6/6/2024. Accessed 6/26/2024.
- American Academy of Family Physicians. Inhalant Abuse (https://familydoctor.org/condition/inhalant-abuse/). Last updated 5/2024. Accessed 6/26/2024.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (U.S.). What are inhalants? (https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/inhalants/what-are-inhalants) Published 2/2011. Accessed 6/26/2024.
- Nguyen J, O’Brien C, Schapp S. Adolescent inhalant use prevention, assessment, and treatment: A literature synthesis (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26969125/). Int J Drug Policy. 2016;31:15-24. Accessed 6/26/2024.
- United States Drug Enforcement Administration. Inhalants (https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/inhalants). Accessed 6/26/2024.
Сlinic Cereneo Photo Gallery
We believe that the most important thing is You — the person who trusts us with their health.
That’s why we offer you the best and most reliable services: premium-level care, and assistance based on evidence-based medicine. We treat not just the illness, but the person. You will never feel like just a cog in the "healthcare factory"; rather, you will experience a personal approach and genuine care.
We look forward to welcoming you:
