For more information on the Spinal Cord Injury Program please call 818-700-5648.
A drunk driver left Robert without the freedom to move – a C5-C7 spinal cord injury and complete immobility from the neck down. As he gained increased function, Robert enrolled in the Northridge Hospital Driving Program.
“Thanks to the Rehab driving program, I regained my freedom. I said to myself I have options... This is doable... I can drive… It made me feel normal again."
Spinal cord injury care begins when the patient first arrives at the hospital where medical teams in the Emergency Department, ICU and Surgery Services work closely together. During inpatient rehabilitation, expert physicians, nurses, therapists and other healthcare professionals create an individualized program of education and one-on-one training for patients, families and partners in care.
Trauma, tumors, infections, immune diseases, vascular disorders, degenerative disorders or surgical complications can all result in a spinal cord injury with physical and emotional impairments that can drastically alter the way of life for patients and their families. Spinal cord injury patients face barriers in performing once common activities that are now major challenges. Adjusting to a new life requires the combined efforts of the patient, family and the entire Center for Rehabilitation Medicine team.
A Thorough System of Care
The Center's Spinal Cord Injury System of Care is the only CARF accredited program in northern Los Angeles County. It is also the only program of its size and complexity in northern Los Angeles County that cares for all types of spinal cord injuries. This comprehensive program prepares the patient to return home and provides support for lifetime care.
From trauma and inpatient medical rehabilitation care to outpatient care and community re-integration, our system provides treatment, support and follow-up. This level of complete services has a significant impact on the patient’s recovery and their return to a full and active life. It also has an impact on the length of stay and costs associated with hospitalization.
Comprehensive Team Care
The primary emphasis within the first few days of the patient’s admission to rehabilitation includes a thorough evaluation resulting in a coordinated treatment plan. During this time, the patient and family are oriented to our program and the facility.
Care team services include:
- Case Management Services
- Medical Psychologists
- Medical and Surgical Consultants
- Nutritional Care Specialists
- Occupational Therapists
- Orthotist/Prosthetist
- Physiatrist (MD’s specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)
- Physical Therapists
- Rehab Nurses
- Rehab Technologists
- Respiratory Therapists
- Social Workers
- Speech Therapists
- Spiritual Care Services
- Therapeutic Recreation Specialists
We also offer a unique outpatient Spinal Cord Injury Program that provides training for advanced mobility skills, functional electrical stimulation and evaluation for progressive gait training devices. In addition, spinal cord injury patients can use the hospital’s indoor pool to improve and ease functional mobility.
There are also opportunities to participate in wheelchair sports and a weekly spinal cord injury support group. For more information on the Spinal Cord Injury Program, please call 818-700-5648.
