Spinal Cord Injuries
In order to meet a growing need, On With Life is further developing its spinal cord injury program in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Spinal Cord Injury Coordinator Sam Williams dives into how this program fits within On With Life’s expertise.
Why is there a need for additional spinal cord rehabilitation in Iowa?
On With Life has identified a need for additional spinal cord care in Iowa due to ongoing trends with shortened lengths of stays in the hospital and inpatient rehabilitation settings. We recognize that persons served with spinal cord injuries require ongoing rehabilitation, family training and education that is not typically available in other traditional post-acute settings. We believe On With Life can assist with bridging that gap, as we continue to do with our other neurological programs, in order to help maximize independence and quality of life.
How do spinal cord injuries differ from other neurological conditions?
Spinal cord injuries often result in other life-altering body system changes that can affect daily living.
Some examples include bowel and bladder control, blood pressure management, temperature regulation and sensation. Education on how to physically manage these tasks independently, or how to direct a caregiver to assist, plays a major role in early rehabilitation and post-discharge, more so than it does with other neurological conditions.
How are On With Life staff equipped to treat spinal cord injuries?
There are many tools our staff use to treat persons served with spinal cord injuries. Our nurses and
therapists use a wide array of adaptive equipment to assist persons served with daily self-cares and transfers in their rooms or the therapy gym. In addition, our therapists will work on strengthening and mobility using simple equipment like mat tables and weights, as well as larger equipment like the pool, e-stim bike, platform walkers and overhead harness. Staff are also always engaging in educational opportunities to stay up to date on trends in spinal cord rehabilitation.