New Techniques for Restoring Function
Our scientists, led by Gail Forrest, PhD, are exploring epidural and transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation techniques to reduce spasticity and improve autonomic and motor function for people with SCI. These studies are part of multi-site collaborations and include long-term follow-up to assess real-world impact.
Improving Access to Rehabilitation Resources
This program, spearheaded by Denise Fyffe, PhD, connects individuals with SCI and their caregivers with trained Navigators who provide personalized guidance on rehabilitation, resources, and community reintegration. The Navigator team also supports clinicians with tools and materials to enhance patient care.
Returning to Work After SCI
John O’Neill, PhD, and colleagues pioneered a novel intervention to address employment barriers faced by individuals with SCI. The approach integrates employment goals into clinical rehabilitation and aligns resources to support individuals' successful return to competitive employment following injury.
Caring for Caregivers
Recognizing the vital role of spinal cord injury caregivers, Jeanne Zanca, PhD, MPT, developed training, peer support, and educational materials to empower families and professionals to deliver high-quality care and care for themselves. Examples of free programs include Community Connect for SCI caregiver peer mentoring and a course for personal care assistants.
Hot, sunny summer days can post serious health risks for people living with SCI, including overheating, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. Learn the signs of heat illness and how to stay cool and safe.
The federally funded Northern New Jersey Spinal Cord Injury System (NNJSCIS) is piloted by Kessler Foundation and Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation. It is one of just 18 Model Systems throughout the U.S. providing lifelong, state-of-the-art care, rehabilitation, and research for people with SCI. The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) provides up-to-date resources for living with SCI.
Help Develop a New Survey About Spinal Cord Injury and Receiving Personal Assistance
This fully remote study helps design a new survey to explore how receiving personal assistance affects the well-being of people with SCI. Participants will complete questionnaires and attend a 2-hour online focus group during one day.
Enroll in our free, online education course designed to provide training for personal care assistants and others who work with individuals with spinal cord injury. The course introduces learners to the physical and emotional experience of living with SCI and offers suggestions for building positive working relationships.
Here is a list of resources for individuals with SCI, their families, and caregivers. In addition, you can learn about updates on research, educational resources, and upcoming events on our Spinal Cord Injury Research Facebook page.
Your Support Drives Change
When you give to Kessler Foundation, you help change what is possible for individuals living with spinal cord injury.
Kenny Diamond, From Love, A Lasting Impact
The Kenny Diamond Memorial Fund to support research in spinal cord injury at Kessler Foundation was established by the Diamond family to honor their son Kenny who passed away...
Peter Hersh, Life With SCI, Made Easier
Dr. Peter Hersh, who lives with a spinal cord injury, was among the first to experience transcutaneous spinal stimulation...
Small Movements. Big Wins.
After sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2004, Jimmy approaches his post-injury rehabilitation with the same athletic drive he put into baseball...
Alexa Is Making Moves After SCI
At age 21, Alexa Alvarez was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis, a rare nontraumatic cause of spinal cord injury...
Rafael Torres, Finding Hope After SCI
Almost 20 years ago, Rafael's life changed in an instant. He woke up in the hospital and learned he was paralyzed from the waist down.
Pastora Goldner, A Mother’s Day Reflection
Over thirty years ago, Pastora was involved in a devastating car accident in the middle of the desert. She has lived with a spinal cord injury ever since.
Victor Pena Keeps Life Sporty After SCI
“I’m passionate about sports,” says Victor Pena, who lives with SCI. “Staying active improves my physical and mental health.”
Walt Schumacher, Making Connections After SCI
In April 2024, Walt Schumacher, a process engineer and national off-road motorcycle racer, sustained a spinal cord injury...
Our Spinal Cord Injury Scientists in Action
Our Scientists Studying Spinal Cord Injury
Specialized Centers Committed to Improving Life After SCI
FAQs About Spinal Cord Injury Recovery and Research
Spinal cord injury recovery is the process of improving movement, body function, and daily living after injury. Recovery looks different for everyone. Rehabilitation research at Kessler Foundation focuses on helping people regain function, improve health, and live as independently as possible.
Yes. While there is no known cure that fully reverses a spinal cord injury, many people continue to improve with rehabilitation, emerging therapies, and the right support. Kessler Foundation researchers develop and study interventions that help improve function, mobility, and overall health. Learn more about our Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research .
Treatment options may include rehabilitation, assistive technology, and emerging therapies. Kessler Foundation researchers study spinal stimulation, wearable robotics, and technology-assisted rehabilitation to improve function, mobility, and quality of life. Learn more on our Mobility page.
Spinal cord stimulation is an emerging rehabilitation approach that uses carefully controlled electrical stimulation of the spinal cord to help restore movement and improve body functions after spinal cord injury. Combined with rehabilitation, it may help improve movement and other body functions after spinal cord injury. Learn more about our Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation.
At Kessler Foundation's Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation, researchers are studying how electrical stimulation, combined with intensive rehabilitation, can help restore function after spinal cord injury. This approach, called neuromodulation, helps activate nerve pathways. Research participants have experienced improvements in standing, walking, arm and hand function, blood pressure regulation, breathing, sensation, and bladder function, even years after injury. Watch our six-minute video to learn how researchers are helping redefine what is possible after spinal cord injury.
Kessler Foundation researchers develop and test new rehabilitation approaches to improve mobility, arm and hand function, bladder function, cardiovascular health, emotional well-being, and participation in everyday life after spinal cord injury. Learn more on our Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research page.
Yes. Many people return to work after spinal cord injury with the right support and accommodations. Kessler Foundation researchers study ways to help people build skills, achieve employment goals, and succeed in the workplace. Learn more on our Employment page.
Support includes rehabilitation services, education, peer connection, and community resources. Kessler Foundation also offers programs that help individuals and families navigate care and adjust to life after injury. Visit our Spinal Cord Injury Resources page.
The SCI Navigator Program is a free service that provides one-on-one guidance for people with spinal cord injury and their families. Navigators help coordinate care, improve home accessibility, connect people with community resources, and answer questions throughout recovery. Learn more about our SCI Navigator Program.
Visit our Join a Study page to explore current spinal cord injury research studies. If you find a study that interests you, complete the online inquiry form. A member of the research team will contact you to discuss eligibility and answer your questions.
