Guillain-Barré Syndrome Rehabilitation

Compassionate, expert-led care for individuals living with Guillain-Barré Syndrome. GBS is a rare but serious neurological condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide specialist rehabilitation and supportive therapies to help individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence.

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physiotherapist with spinal rehab patient

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an acute, rapidly progressing condition that often begins with tingling or weakness in the legs and can advance to full-body paralysis. It typically follows a viral or bacterial infection and requires prompt medical attention. Although most people recover, the timeline and outcomes vary, and some may experience lingering effects.

Symptoms of GBS

Symptoms may develop over hours, days, or weeks and often include:

Numbness or tingling in the feet and hands
Muscle weakness, often beginning in the legs
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Pain in the lower back or limbs
Rapid progression to paralysis in severe cases
Difficulty breathing or swallowing in advanced stages

Diagnosis

GBS is diagnosed through a combination of clinical assessments and tests, which may include:

Nerve conduction studies – to assess electrical activity in the nerves
Lumbar puncture – to examine spinal fluid for elevated protein levels
MRI scans – to rule out other conditions
Blood tests – to identify recent infections or autoimmune markers

Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications and initiate the right treatment.

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Treatment

There is no cure for GBS, but early treatment can reduce its severity and aid recovery. Treatment typically includes:

Speech and swallowing therapy, where needed
Hospitalisation and monitoring – especially if breathing is affected
Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to limit the immune response
Physical and occupational therapy to support muscle function and regain independence

Specialist Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Our multidisciplinary team supports GBS patients with:

Personalised inpatient rehabilitation programmes
Advanced physiotherapy to rebuild strength and mobility
Neurological occupational therapy for daily living skills
On-site neuropsychological support to manage emotional and cognitive impacts
Assistive technology to aid recovery and independence

We are equipped with cutting-edge rehabilitation equipment and experienced in helping patients recover from complex neurological conditions.

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Our patients benefit from a highly skilled team of clinical specialists including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists and language therapists who will work closely with the patient depending on their personal treatment plan.

Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists are specialised in spinal cord injuries as well as treating a wide range of other conditions. Treatment can be a combination of traditional techniques and using neurotechnology.

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Speech and language therapist with patient

Speech and Language Therapy

Inpatient and outpatient therapy for adults and children, dedicated to enhancing communication abilities and overall quality of life.

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Occupational therapist and patient in kitchen

Occupational Therapy

Our skilled occupational therapy team supports people in relearning everyday tasks after spinal cord injury, including practical training in our purpose built kitchen.

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Who Can Benefit?

Recovery from Guillain-Barré Syndrome can take weeks to months, and in some cases, longer. We work closely with each patient to monitor progress, adjust therapies, and provide ongoing support to aid long-term recovery and prevent complications.

Why Choose Us?

Expertise in neurorehabilitation
Personalised care in a supportive environment
Comfortable private rooms and therapy-led recovery plans
Family involvement in rehabilitation planning

Inpatient Therapy Packages

Our tailored inpatient therapy packages are designed for individuals recovering from complete or incomplete spinal cord injuries who require intensive, structured rehabilitation.

Each package is priced based on the number of therapy sessions provided daily, ensuring flexibility to meet varying clinical needs.

During your stay, you’ll benefit from a private en-suite room, round-the-clock nursing care, and freshly prepared meals served on-site. You’ll also have direct access to our state-of-the-art rehabilitation facilities and continuous support from our experienced multidisciplinary team.

To help keep loved ones close, we offer modern 1 and 2-bedroom self-contained flats on the hospital grounds. These recently renovated accommodations provide a comfortable, convenient space for family and friends to stay nearby throughout your recovery journey.

Inpatient Information

A Comfortable Stay

Our facilities for patients, family and friends help make your stay with us as comfortable as possible.

On-site guest accommodation

Families can stay close to loved ones in one of our on-site apartments next to the Rehabilitation Centre.
Outstanding patient care

Inpatients receive 24/7 care from our multi-disciplinary team helping you recover from your stroke.
Free patient parking

Free parking is available for all patients at the Rehabilitation Centre and for family, or friends accompanying them.
Where Culinary Excellence Meets Personal Care

At Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, dining is more than nourishment — it’s an experience. Our inpatients enjoy refined, chef-led cuisine served with the discretion and detail of a five-star hotel, tailored to support both recovery and indulgence.