Spinal Cord Rehabilitation in New Jersey
Conditions We Treat After Spinal Cord Injury
Our spinal cord injury rehabilitation team treats patients who have had a complete or incomplete spinal cord injury below the fifth cervical vertebra who are not on a ventilator. Our program serves patients throughout New Jersey and treats all aspects of spinal cord injury and related complications, and assists patients with:- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Blood pressure complications
- Learning adaptive techniques to accomplish tasks
- Musculoskeletal complications
- Muscle weakness (hypotonia)
- Pressure ulcer prevention
- Redeveloping fine motor skills
- Secondary infection prevention
- Sexual function and fertility
- Spasticity management
Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
We offer a full range of inpatient and outpatient services throughout New Jersey designed to help patients achieve independence and improve quality of life after spinal cord injury. Our services include:
- Adaptive technique education: We teach patients new techniques for performing everyday tasks.
- Assistive technology: Our specialists are up to date on the latest assistive technology, helping patients to maximize mobility, independence and communication.
- Behavioral counseling: We help patients address behavioral changes that may occur after spinal cord injury, including aggression, disinhibition, depression and social challenges.
- Driver Training Program: Our certified driver rehabilitation specialists help patients get back on the road through our state-certified program that includes pre-driver evaluation, on-the-road evaluation, and on-the-road training.
- Environmental adaptations: Recommendations for adaptations at home, school or work can help patients successfully participate in everyday activities.
- Health and wellness education: We teach patients across New Jersey how to maintain overall well-being.
- Infection management: We treat complications of spinal cord injury that may lead to infections.
- Medical equipment consultations: We work closely with patients and their families to determine what medical equipment would be most beneficial.
- Medication management: Our team monitors each patient’s medications, including those prescribed for chronic health conditions, to prevent interactions and increase safety.
- Nutrition management: Proper nutrition guided by our New Jersey rehabilitation specialists, supports healing and can prevent complications associated with other health conditions.
- Orthotic evaluation (custom braces): Orthotics are devices worn to support foot movement.
- Pain management: We use the latest techniques and therapies to manage pain and reduce the use of opioid medications.
- Prostheses consultation: We evaluate patients to determine if they might benefit from a prosthetic device.
- Psychological counseling: Patients with behavioral or mental health concerns have access to comprehensive psychological care.
- Physical, occupational, recreational and speech therapy: Physical therapy and occupational therapy help return patients to the highest possible level of function after spinal cord injury.
- Spasticity management: We help patients manage spasticity and its symptoms, including tightness, stiffness, pain and spasms.
- Supportive services: Our patients have access to case management, social work, and family counseling services.
- Wheelchair and seating assessment: We match patients with the right wheelchair for their condition and conduct seating assessments to maximize comfort, safety and function.
Frequently Asked Spinal Cord Rehab Questions
What rehab services are provided for people with spinal cord injuries?
Our rehab program includes a variety of therapies designed to help patients regain function and independence. These may include:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Recreational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Behavioral therapy
- Spasticity and pain management
What types of conditions are cared for in your spinal cord rehab programs?
At Hackensack Meridian Health, we help patients with conditions such as:
- Bladder and bowel problems
- Blood pressure changes
- Muscle weakness
- Spasticity
- Pain and musculoskeletal complications
- Fine motor skill redevelopment
- Sexual health and fertility concerns
- Preventing infections and pressure ulcers
Can people with spinal cord injuries learn to drive again?
Yes. The Driver Training Program at Hackensack Meridian Health helps patients get back on the road. Certified specialists provide pre-driving evaluations, on-the-road training, and guidance through the state certification process.
How does nutrition play a role in spinal cord injury recovery
Proper nutrition helps support healing and can prevent problems that may come from other health conditions. Nutrition management is an important part of the rehabilitation process at Hackensack Meridian Health.