In the field of rehabilitation medicine, we face the monumental task of not only helping those who have suffered injuries or disabilities to regain function and independence but also assisting our aging population in maintaining their health and vitality. At the Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, we are rising to this challenge by pushing the boundaries of what is possible through our unwavering commitment to excellence in education, research, clinical care, and innovation.

As one of the oldest departments in the country, founded in 1910, we have a rich history of pioneering advancements in rehabilitation medicine. Today, we continue to lead the charge as the only department in New York State to have both brain injury and spinal cord injury model systems, a prestigious federal designation. Our research prowess is unmatched, with our department ranking third nation for National Institutes of Health dollars in rehabilitation research.

But what truly sets us apart is our culture of collaboration and innovation. We work hand in hand with other departments at Mount Sinai, such as orthopedics and neurosurgery, to provide comprehensive care for our patients. Beyond our walls, we have partnered with over 70 companies, including tech giants like Microsoft and Apple, as well as U.S. Olympic teams and the military, to advance our understanding of human performance and develop cutting-edge solutions for our patients. This spirit of collaboration has led to groundbreaking achievements, such as conducting the first in-human trials in the U.S. for brain-machine interface using a stent, offering our patients access to novel technologies not available elsewhere.

My vision is to create one of the world's premier rehabilitation departments, leaving no stone unturned in our quest to provide the best possible care for our patients. We are expanding our reach globally, collaborating with partners in Africa, Australia, Asia, and Europe to share knowledge and elevate the standard of care worldwide. Through our Abilities Research Center, we are harnessing the latest technological advancements to help our patients achieve unprecedented levels of function and independence.

We are on the cusp of a new era in rehabilitation medicine, and there is incredible work happening here at Mount Sinai. Our residents, fellows, and faculty feel the excitement of being part of a department that is constantly pushing the envelope and redefining what is possible in rehabilitation medicine. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, helping them to overcome challenges and achieve their fullest potential.

Joseph Herrera, DO

Lucy G. Moses Professorship in Rehabilitation Medicine
Chair, Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai