Spinal Cord Medicine
The department provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation and care at VCU Health, Sheltering Arms Institute and the Central Virginia VA Health Care System (CVHCS). We strive to maximize the quality of life for persons with SCI and disorders through the use of rehabilitation services. In collaboration with Sheltering Arms Institute and CVHCS, we are proud to be one of only 14 federally designated Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Model Systems Centers in the U.S. and one of only four centers in the nation to have a dual designation as a SCI and traumatic brain injury (TBI) model systems center. Our programs emphasize the enhancement of quality of life by improving functional independence, increasing participation in social activities, preventing further injury and by education in health maintenance.
SCI rehabilitation is an intensive interdisciplinary program utilizing the expertise of SCI-trained physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, recreation therapists, speech and language pathologists, social workers, rehabilitation psychologists, rehabilitation nursing, wound care specialists, and dieticians along with a comprehensive group of consultants.
Services
- Medical management of persons with SCI
- Mobility and self-care retraining
- Individualized therapy programs
- Psychological services for adjustment
The Gerry Bertier #42 Foundation
The Gerry Bertier #42 Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports the VCU Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation and Research Center. The foundation’s goal is to raise awareness and support for SCI patients, therapists and doctors at VCU with a commitment to improve hope, function and quality of life.