Learn About Clinical Studies

Here's what's in this section:

Find physicians that specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation – physiatrists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, as well as spinal cord injury specialists in family medicine, sports medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, recreation therapy, psychology, social work, and vocational rehabilitation. 

A variety of medical and professional associations provide access to best-practice patient treatment and family education resources. Up-to-date information and guidance is contained in fact sheets from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center for Spinal Cord Injury. These are routinely updated as advancements in medical care occur.

Thousands of medical professionals, scientists, and researchers across the globe are currently working to discover ways to improve the lives of individuals living with a spinal cord injury. Stay alert to advancements in research, treatment, education, and medical care by connecting with a research registry to be alerted about opportunities to participate in clinical trials and learn about recent discoveries. 

This section also provides information sources for durable medical equipment and personal care supplies such as wheelchairs (manual and electric), hospital beds, Hoyer lifts, crutches, bath benches, commodes, pressure mattresses, grab bars, trapeze bars, and urinary supplies and catheters. New improvements in product design are always on the horizon. Explore information on the nationwide Ability Expos to stay current with consumer products to support health and wellness.

Learn About Clinical Studies A variety of consumer education sheets were developed by the U.S. National Institutes of Health to help people better understand clinical studies. Descriptions are provided on clinical trials and observation studies, who and where clinical studies are conducted, how long studies last, reasons for conducting them and who and how one participates in a clinical study.