Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
Our team of experts understands the challenges of spinal cord injuries. From your first visit to long-term recovery, we put your needs and goals first.
Medically reviewed by Lisa Merritt, M.D., Nicholas Race, M.D. and John Dorsett, M.D. on Aug. 31, 2026.
Expert Rehabilitation After Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can significantly impact your life. But at UC Davis Health, you’re not alone. Our experienced rehabilitation team is here to help you move forward. Through comprehensive, personalized care, we help you rebuild strength and regain independence.
Our team-based approach brings together specialists who focus on every aspect of your recovery. We're committed to helping you achieve your goals from your first days after injury through long-term wellness.
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Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Services We Provide
UC Davis Health is a respected leader in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Our team of physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, respiratory therapists and social workers work together on your care plan, which may include:
Adaptive Equipment and Technology
Our team specializes in fittings for wheelchairs, braces, orthotics and other assistive devices. We guide you through using adaptive technology, such as wheelchair add-ons, that can enhance your independence and make daily tasks easier.
Bladder and Bowel Management
We teach you ways to manage bladder and bowel needs after spinal cord injury. Our team considers what will work best for you when we create your plan.
Family and Caregiver Education
Your loved ones are an important part of your recovery team. We provide hands-on training and education so they can support you at home.
Movement and Transfer Training
Our program teaches you techniques for moving between your wheelchair to your bed, car and other areas. Having these skills and strength can increase your independence.
Pain Management
Our team understands chronic pain, addressing it with proven strategies and treatments. Our goal is to help you find relief, so pain doesn't limit your quality of life.
Respiratory and Breathing Support
If your injury affects your breathing, our respiratory therapists help you strengthen breathing muscles. We also show you how to use a breathing assistive device if you need one.
Strengthening and Conditioning
We help you build muscle strength and endurance through customized exercises. These exercises can help you achieve greater independence.
Wheelchair Mobility Training
Learn how to maneuver your wheelchair safely and confidently in various environments. We teach you how to navigate different surfaces and manage obstacles so you can move well.
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As Sacramento's No. 1 hospital, you'll benefit from unique advantages in primary care and specialty care. This includes prevention, diagnosis and treatment options from experts in 150 specialties.
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Benefits of SCI Rehabilitation
Specialized rehabilitation can positively affect your life after a spinal cord injury. The right guidance and expertise can help you regain as much independence and function as possible.
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Faster Progress
Our team has extensive experience treating all levels and types of spinal cord injuries. This expertise means we can anticipate challenges and help you make meaningful progress.
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Seamless Treatment
Your team meets regularly to discuss your progress and coordinate your care. This regular communication means everyone is working toward your unique goals.
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Customized Approach
Our team focuses on what matters to you and designs your rehabilitation around those activities. We help you function while also living a meaningful life.
What to Expect During SCI Rehab
If you are starting your SCI recovery, it is normal to have questions. Your plan will be unique to you and will include these components:
Early Stage Support
In the early stages of your rehabilitation, we focus on your medical needs and preventing complications from the injury. We also begin early mobility work that focuses on your safety and comfort.
Continued Improvement
As you progress and gain confidence, we help you work toward new goals. We adjust your treatment when needed, looking closely at your challenges, progress and personal preferences.
Home Care
We provide you with a clear plan to use at home, between your rehabilitation sessions. Completing these exercises or movements will help you reach your potential, and we’re here to help if you have questions or concerns.
Awards and Recognitions
Ranked among the best in 6 specialties
A U.S. News & World Report best hospital in cancer care, cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, geriatrics, neurology & neurosurgery, orthopedics, and pulmonology & lung surgery.
Ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals
U.S. News & World Report ranked UC Davis Children’s Hospital among the best in pediatric nephrology, orthopedics*, and neonatology. (*Together with Shriners Children’s Northern California)
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital
Ranked Sacramento’s #1 hospital by U.S. News, and recognized in 23 types of care including acute kidney failure, cancer care, cardiology, heart & vascular surgery, COPD, colon cancer surgery, diabetes, diabetes & endocrinology, ear, nose & throat surgery, gastroenterology & GI surgery, geriatrics, gynecological cancer surgery, heart arrhythmia, heart attack, heart failure, hip fracture, hip replacement, leukemia, lymphoma & myeloma, lung cancer surgery, neurology & neurosurgery, orthopedics, pneumonia, pulmonology & lung surgery and stroke.
The nation’s highest nursing honor
UC Davis Medical Center has received Magnet® recognition, the nation’s highest honor for nursing excellence.
World-class cancer care
One of ~59 U.S. cancer centers designated “comprehensive” by the National Cancer Institute.
A leader in health care equality
For the 13th consecutive year, UC Davis Medical Center has been recognized as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader by the educational arm of America’s largest civil rights organization.
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