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Spinal Cord Injury (Traumatic and Non-Traumatic)

Spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when damage to the spinal cord or related nerves leads to changes in movement, sensation, and body function.

SCIs are categorized as traumatic or non-traumatic. Traumatic injuries result from sudden events such as falls or car accidents, while non-traumatic injuries develop gradually due to conditions such as arthritis, tumors, or disease

Depending on the severity and location of the injury, those with an SCI may experience a wide range of challenges:

Sensory changes

Partial or complete loss of sensation below the level of injury

Physical changes

Loss of strength, mobility, and control of body systems such as bowel, bladder, and blood pressure

Emotional and cognitive changes

Mood shifts, difficulty with concentration, memory, or judgment following trauma or neurological impact

Most people with serious spinal cord injuries (both traumatic and non-traumatic) will need specialized inpatient rehabilitation to restore function, manage symptoms, and adapt to lifelong changes.

3 Rehabilitation nurses with a resident physician

Our Approach

Inpatient Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation at UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center is intensive, multidisciplinary care led by a board-certified physiatrist — a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Patients receive three or more hours of therapy per day (physical therapy, occupational therapy, and, if needed, speech therapy) with 24/7 nursing support.

Our team works together daily to restore function, independence, and confidence following SCI. We tailor care to address the unique medical, physical, and emotional needs of each patient. We support both the individual and their family throughout the recovery process.

What to Expect:

Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan aimed at restoring function, confidence, and comfort. Therapy is structured around your physical and emotional recovery goals. Your care team collaborates daily to monitor progress and adjust treatment. Emotional support, family education, and preparation for post-discharge life are important elements of the program.

Videos

spinal cord injury rehabilitation
Spinal Cord Injury
Learn how spinal cord injuries are managed at UAB Spain Rehabilitation Center.
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Michael Neville
Celebrating 50 Years of SCIMS: Michael Neville
Hear Michael Neville’s story for the Spinal Cord Injury Model System 50 Year Celebration at UAB Medicine.
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Vicky Ott
Celebrating 50 Years of SCIMS: Vicky Ott
Hear Vicky Ott’s story for the Spinal Cord Injury Model System 50 Year Celebration at UAB Medicine.
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Recent News

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Karen Culverhouse, physical therapist assistant
Spain Rehabilitation Center News
September 4, 2025
Alex Posey, OTR/L, CSRS, occupational therapist
Spain Rehabilitation Center News
September 4, 2025

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