Spinal Cord Injury Research

Each year, approximately 18,000 individuals in the United States sustain a spinal cord injury (SCI), adding to the hundreds of thousands already living with the long-term consequences of such injuries. At the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) at UTHealth, we are steadfast in our commitment to improving the lives of those affected by SCI. Through our close partnership with the region’s busiest Level I Trauma Center at the Texas Medical Center and the nationally acclaimed TIRR Memorial Hermann—consistently ranked among the top rehabilitation hospitals—we care for hundreds of individuals with newly acquired SCIs each year. Our support continues across the lifespan, resulting in thousands of patient visits annually and a profound impact on the SCI community.

This unparalleled clinical access allows us to advance research efforts focused on improving quality of life for individuals with SCI. From the earliest moments in the trauma wards, through inpatient rehabilitation, and across the full continuum of care, our mission remains constant: to improve outcomes and foster a better quality of life for those living with spinal cord injury.