Hope in Motion: Allied Services' Success with Vivistim® Therapy in Stroke Recovery

At Allied Services, we're proud to offer innovative therapies that truly transform lives. Among the latest advancements in stroke rehabilitation is the Vivistim® Paired VNS™ Therapy System, a breakthrough approach that’s redefining what recovery can look like for survivors of ischemic stroke. This FDA-approved neurostimulation device is designed to help patients regain movement and independence—particularly in their hand and arm—long after a stroke.

Changing Lives at Allied: Patient Success Stories

Already in use, our therapy team has seen firsthand how the Vivistim System not only improves upper extremity motor function but also restores a sense of independence and confidence. Everyday tasks like folding laundry, writing, or even hugging a loved one have become possible again for patients who once thought those moments were behind them.

Occupational therapist, Lori Aldrich shared:

“Since beginning therapy with the Vivistim System, one of our patients has shown significant improvement in incorporating his affected hand into daily activities. He’s now able to grip and use objects that were previously impossible to manage—including holding a fishing pole with his weaker hand. That progress has sparked a noticeable boost in motivation and outlook.”

What Is Vivistim and How Does It Work?

The Vivistim System pairs vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with occupational therapy or physical therapy. A small, pacemaker-like device is surgically implanted in a same-day outpatient procedure under the skin in the upper left chest area. A stimulation lead is placed around the vagus nerve, a key highway of brain-body communication.

Later, during outpatient therapy, the device is activated via a wireless transmitter while patients perform functional motor tasks. This stimulation boosts neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections—thereby enhancing recovery outcomes. The approach is proven to yield 2-3 times greater improvement in hand and arm function compared to rehabilitation alone​.

Who is a Candidate?

Vivistim is intended for adults who:

• Had an ischemic stroke at least 6 months ago
• Have moderate to severe hand and arm impairment
• Want to improve their hand and arm function 2-3 times more than conventional therapy
• Retain some wrist and finger movement
• Are cognitively able to participate in therapy
• Are motivated and able to engage in therapy

What Does the Therapy Look Like?

After the implant heals, patients begin a six-week in-clinic program. Each session includes hundreds of purposeful movements while a Vivistim-trained therapist activates the device with a remote. Tasks range from grasping and flipping objects to opening containers or mimicking eating activities.

As a complement to this intensive phase, therapists encourage patients to initiate self-activated Vivistim Therapy. By swiping a magnet across the device, patients can activate vagus nerve stimulation during daily activities—further supporting ongoing brain remodeling and motor improvement.

Looking Ahead: A New Era in Stroke Recovery

Our experience at Allied Services echoes the optimism shared by national leaders in stroke rehabilitation. This isn’t just about regaining function—it’s about restoring quality of life. As one of our patients put it, “I’m finally able to do the things I thought were gone forever.”

We’re proud to offer Vivistim® Paired VNS™ Therapy and to help shape the future of stroke recovery right here in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania.

Learn More or See If You Qualify

Learn more about Vivistim at allied-services.org

Curious if Vivistim is right for you or a loved one?
Take the Vivistim qualification survey.

Visit Vivistim.com/safety to review safety information.

Let’s move forward—together.