Karin Diserens

Papers

Total Citations

141

H-Index

About

Karin Diserens is a leading figure in neurorehabilitation, with a particular focus on the acute and intensive care management of patients with severe brain injuries. Her research addresses the critical intersection of early mobilization, autonomic nervous system function, and recovery in this vulnerable population. A landmark contribution is her pioneering work on the safety and efficacy of early mobilization in intensive care, demonstrated through a prospective randomized study (52 citations) that challenged traditional dogma of prolonged bed rest by showing it can be performed without triggering harmful sympathetic overactivity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Diserens was a vocal advocate for the continuity of neurorehabilitation, authoring a highly cited call to action (89 citations) arguing that postponing these therapies would lead to irreversible secondary disability. Her work has reshaped clinical protocols, proving that early, controlled activity is not only feasible but essential for preventing long-term neurological decline. By integrating hemodynamic monitoring with rehabilitation strategies, Diserens has provided the evidence base for a paradigm shift in neurocritical care, making her a key voice in the movement to prioritize functional recovery from the very first days of illness.