People who suffer spinal cord injuries may need intensive help in adapting to a new way of life. The JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute (JRI) in central New Jersey provides comprehensive services to those affected with spinal cord impairments resulting from either traumatic spinal cord injuries or non-traumatic disorders such as tumors, transverse myelitis, myelopathies, spinal cord infractions and aneurysms.

Our multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach to care provides individualized treatment and support to patients and their families. The focus of the program is to address a patient's medical problem and maximize mobility and functional independence.

Each patient receives a comprehensive evaluation during the first days of his or her inpatient stay in our NJ facility. Based upon the individual's needs and the team's recommendations, goals and a treatment program will developed. This program may address any of the following areas: 

• Wheelchair management and mobility
• Transfers in and out of bed
• Strengthening/stretching
• Bathing/dressing
• Bowel and bladder function
• Balance/coordination
• Lifestyle adjustment
• Medication education
• Skin care
• Leisure activities
• Homemaking
• Grooming
• Ambulation
• Driving
• Tub/shower/toilet use

A patient's therapy schedule will combine individual and group therapy.  JRI also offers specialized clinics as needed.

The therapy team meets weekly to discuss goals, progress and discharge plans. Family members are requested to take an active part in training and discharge planning. After completing an inpatient stay, patients can continue improving their abilities through JRI's outpatient services in NJ,  including physical therapy and occupational therapy.