The Rehabilitation Institute of South Florida at Memorial Regional Hospital South is experienced in the treatment and rehabilitation of spinal cord injuries. A spinal cord injury usually begins with a sudden, traumatic blow to the spine that fractures or dislocates vertebrae. Spinal cord injuries often involve fractures and displaced bone fragments or disc material, or damage to ligaments or tears into the spinal tissue. Compression of the vertebrae or fractures can destroy the axons, which are extensions of nerve cells that carry signals between the brain, spine and the rest of the body. Spinal cord injuries can damage a few or many of these axons, varying the degree of injury. Some injuries will allow almost complete recovery. Others can result in paralysis.

Our rehabilitation team offers a comprehensive evaluation and personalized plan of care for the patient and family. Depending on your injuries, your therapy may include physical, speech, recreational and occupational therapies. We will work with you and your family to develop a realistic plan of care aimed at helping to restore your abilities and support you through your recovery. In addition, we have support groups for spinal cord injury patients and their families to help you cope with the emotional impact of your injuries and the changes and challenges you may be experiencing.

At the Rehabilitation Institute of South Florida, we recognize that families and their caregivers are important members of the rehabilitation team. We offer a patient- and family-centered care approach that allows 24-hour visitation with bedside accommodations for overnight stays if desired. We also encourage families to attend weekly conferences with their loved one to discuss progress and plans for discharge directly with their personalized team of caregivers. We encourage family participation in your daily therapy sessions and also provide an evaluation of your home by our therapy team if needed prior to discharge. Depending on your individual needs, you may receive exercise therapy to help recondition and strengthen muscles to support increased mobility and flexibility so you can lead a more active, independent lifestyle.

In addition, we offer an innovative way to practice life skills. Our Determination Drive is a realistic, simulated community environment that includes a fully functioning apartment, a car, library and grocery store to allow you the opportunity to practice everyday challenges prior to returning home.

By combining some of the latest in advanced technology with highly trained staff within a beautiful, therapeutic environment, we are able to support patients in regaining function and independence.

As part of our focus on providing patient- and family-centered care, we offer a support group for spinal cord injury patients and their families. Call 954-518-5546 for more information.

For questions about admission or to arrange a tour, call 954-634-5658 954-518-5725.