Spinal Cord Injury Information Center
Pioneering Research in Spinal Cord Injury for Over 25 Years
The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) has been a recognized leader in providing comprehensive spinal cord injury (sci) rehabilitation services for more than 25 years. Designated as the Midwest's First Center for Spinal Cord Injury Treatment, and recently named a Model System Spinal Cord Injury Center by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, RIC continues to pioneer research, as well as medical and technological advancements for people with spinal cord injuries.
About Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is the major collection of nerves which transmits motor and sensory information to and from the brain to the rest of the body. It is surrounded by bony rings called vertebrae. The column of nerves and bones that travel from the brain to the tail bone make up the spinal cord. The protective bony structure is the spinal column. An injury to the spinal column may cause the bones around the spinal cord to break and press against the spinal cord, which can damage the nerves, affecting movement and sensation. Damage to the spinal cord and nerves can happen without damage to the bones.
Read More in Our Spinal Cord Injury Glossary
How We Help People with Spinal Cord Injuries
For people who have experienced a spinal cord injury, rehabilitation provides the opportunity for regaining skills, tools and outlook to return to living independently. The goal of rehabilitation at RIC is to foster productivity and full participation in social, vocational and leisure activities.
See Our Full List of Services
Discover More Possibilities with RIC's Second Look Program
Even if you received care for a spinal cord injury many years ago, you may be looking for additional options for achieving more goals in your rehabilitation journey. RIC's Second Look is a program offered at RIC for people with all levels of spinal cord injury including those using ventilators -- a periodic, comprehensive, medical and rehabilitation evaluation and care management update that will help them achieve their best life possible.
Find out more about Second Look and If You Qualify
RIC's Spinal Cord Injury Specialists
The care patients receive at RIC is unique because our team of specialists can address all stages of rehabilitation. Our multi-disciplinary care team is made up of physiatrists, nurses, physical, speech, occupational and recreational therapists and is expanded to include consultations with internists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons and urologists, as needed.
Meet Our Medical Staff
Living with a Disability: Spinal Cord Injury
At RIC we also provide resources, support groups and links to organizations, associations and Web sites that can help people meet their goals for independent daily life.
Comprehensive Spinal Cord Injury services are available at several RIC locations. For more information, call our Toll Free Referral and Information Line: 1-800-354-REHAB (7342), or visit the locations page of our Web site.
Spinal Cord Injury Online Resources