Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) occur when damage to the spinal cord results in a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation. The severity of the injury depends on the location and extent of the damage. SCIs can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting areas below the injury site. Common causes include trauma from accidents, falls, or medical conditions. Rehabilitation, assistive devices, and physical therapy play a crucial role in recovery and improving quality of life for individuals with SCI.
Maine Resources
New England Rehabilitation Hospital - Offers specialized programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, and neuromuscular medicine, supported by a team of experienced healthcare professionals. New England Rehabilitation Hospital provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for patients recovering from conditions like spinal cord injuries, strokes, and orthopedic surgeries.
Rehab Without Walls - Offers specialized rehabilitation programs for spinal cord injury patients, focusing on improving mobility, using adaptive equipment, and managing emotional challenges. Their approach combines personalized, functional goals with a multidisciplinary team to support recovery in real-life settings. Therapy can be conducted at home, in the community, outpatient clinics, or residential facilities.
Regional Resources
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital - Spaulding Rehabilitation offers comprehensive patient support services, including hospital rehab, long-term acute care, outpatient services, and skilled nursing. They focus on managing care through admission support, case management, insurance assistance, and ensuring patient rights. Additional services include access to medical records, wellness therapies, and support groups.
United Spinal Association NH Chapter - This links you to the Facebook group page for the NH Chapter of the United Spinal Association. Their goal is to: maximize quality of life, raise self-esteem and improve physical and mental health. Their mission is to: promote community integration, participation, and independence for individuals with a disability by providing the tools and community support to be successful in their work and personal lives.
National Resources
Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) - Dedicated to serving veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases through advocacy, research, and support services. They provide assistance with VA benefits, accessible home and vehicle modifications, career programs, sports and recreation, and caregiver support, aiming to enhance the quality of life for veterans and their families.
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation - Dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for people living with paralysis through grants, advocacy, and information resources. Their Living with Paralysis information page provides comprehensive resources for individuals with paralysis and their caregivers. Covering topics like: mental/physical health, cost of care, navigating insurance, rehabilitation, lifestyle, and parenting. It offers free resources, peer mentoring, and a Paralysis Resource Guide to support and improve the quality of life for those affected by paralysis.
United Spinal Association - Provides resources, advocacy, peer support, and information on accessible products and services. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for their members through support groups, educational programs, and emergency preparedness. Membership is free and includes access to a wide range of services as well as the New Mobility magazine. The organization also collaborates on initiatives to improve accessibility and independence for people with disabilities.