Useful Resources

We have a comprehensive list of helpful resources categorized by different topics for people living with spinal cord injury, their partners, and the healthcare professionals who treat them. Many other organizations provide news, educational material, and contacts for and by persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Below you will find a list of websites of organizations and individuals, categorized by different topics.

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Disclaimer:
Linking to publications, materials or websites of other organizations or entities does not constitute endorsement by Mount Sinai of such publications, materials or websites. Mount Sinai provides these references and links because they may be of value to persons interested in SCI.

In addition to our research and clinical services, Mount Sinai's Spinal Cord Injury Program offers a range of resources for individuals with spinal cord injuries, their families, and healthcare professionals. We provide a monthly e-newsletter, “The Spinal Connection,” with updates on events, treatments, and research. The program has also developed various educational resources, including guides on sexuality after SCI, exoskeleton-assisted walking, healthcare for women with SCI, bladder self-catheterization, nutrition, and adaptive workouts. We also offer a webinar series on returning to work, COVID-19 guidance, a blood clot prevention guide, and peer mentoring manuals. Visit our resources page for a list of our current SCI resources. 

The about spinal cord injury topic page offers a wealth of resources to help individuals, and their support networks understand and manage life with spinal cord injury (SCI). These include tutorial videos on SCI basics, acute management, and secondary conditions, along with comprehensive guides and multimedia courses designed to support informed and healthy living post-injury. Various organizations provide educational handouts on mobility, medical issues, and equipment, as well as fact sheets, videos, and research reviews to make scientific findings accessible. Additionally, there are social mentoring networks, online encyclopedias, and curated lists of important resources to assist with the adjustment and daily challenges of living with SCI.

The adaptive devices and supplies topic page provides essential resources for individuals with spinal cord injuries to enhance their independence and quality of life. It covers detailed guides on selecting the right wheelchair, including both manual and power options, and offers assistive technology and adaptive tools for various daily activities, such as cooking and dining. The page highlights grants and funding opportunities for obtaining necessary adaptive equipment, home modifications, and exercise-based recovery programs. Additionally, it includes information on assistive technology for computing, universal design for accessible living spaces, and rental services for mobility aids.

The adaptive driving page offers crucial resources for individuals with spinal cord injuries to regain driving independence. It provides guidance on the steps to take to resume driving and discusses finding accessible vehicles, sharing success stories of individuals who have returned to the road. The page covers adaptive automotive equipment, including evaluation and purchasing processes, and offers information on driver rehabilitation programs that assist with developing or improving driving capacities. Additionally, it includes resources for specialized driving lessons, evaluations, and funding options for adaptive vehicles and equipment.

The adaptive fashion page highlights resources for accessible and stylish clothing options for people with disabilities. It features organizations dedicated to creating functional and fashionable wearables by collaborating with designers, engineers, and occupational therapists. The page also includes non-profit initiatives working toward greater inclusion in the fashion industry and provides informative articles listing top adaptive clothing brands. Additionally, it offers guides on the best adaptive clothing lines to make dressing easier.

The COVID-19 & SCI page offers targeted resources for the spinal cord injury community to navigate the pandemic. It includes updated guidance on managing health and safety, with a focus on immune system support through diet and nutrition. The page provides access to adaptive and inclusive fitness, dance, and yoga resources for staying active at home. Additionally, it offers mental health support resources to help manage stress, anxiety, and isolation during the crisis.

The disability rights & advocacy page provides essential information and resources for promoting and protecting the civil rights of individuals with disabilities. It highlights organizations that engage in legal advocacy, nonviolent direct action, and the elimination of barriers to equality. The page includes guides on U.S. laws safeguarding disability rights, advice on political and economic empowerment, and support for legal professionals specializing in disability rights. Additionally, it covers topics such as voting rights and the use of service animals under the ADA.

The fire safety, emergency preparedness topic page offers essential resources for people with disabilities to plan and respond effectively to emergencies. It includes guides and workbooks for creating personalized emergency plans, ensuring fire safety, and preparing for disasters, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. The page provides educational materials, training resources, and tips for enhancing preparedness and response efforts. Additionally, it highlights tools for locating electricity-dependent equipment users, ensuring that those reliant on such devices are considered in emergency plans.

The national programs & organizations topic page provides a variety of valuable resources for individuals with spinal cord injuries, their families, and healthcare providers. It includes information on medical research, advocacy, and educational resources tailored to improve the quality of life and ensure the rights of people with spinal cord injuries. The page features guides on navigating disability-related information, accessing support networks, and participating in policy-making processes. Additionally, it highlights organizations dedicated to legal advocacy, independent living, and the provision of comprehensive disability services.

The nutrition topic page provides a comprehensive guide to managing nutrition and health for individuals with spinal cord injuries. It includes practical nutritional advice, weight management programs, and a range of accessible resources tailored to the needs of those with SCI. There are specific programs and cookbooks designed to help with healthy eating, weight control, and improving bowel health. Additionally, it offers tools for adaptive cooking, nutrition tips, and resources for making healthier food choices, along with information on fresh food access and food delivery services.

The nursing homes topic page offers comprehensive resources to help you make informed decisions when selecting a nursing home in New York State. It includes a detailed guide designed for prospective residents, providing essential information to assist in choosing appropriate care. Additionally, the New York State Nursing Home Profiles website offers data on every nursing home in the state, evaluating factors such as quality of care, resident safety, and inspection results. The Nursing Home Quality Initiative highlights top-performing nursing homes based on recent quality assessments, helping you identify facilities with excellent care standards.

The NYC programs & organizations page provides a comprehensive overview of various initiatives and resources designed to support individuals with disabilities. Multidisciplinary centers and independent living services offer tailored programs and support, ranging from health and wellness to educational and employment opportunities

The Spinal Cord Injury sexuality topic page offers extensive resources for individuals with spinal cord injury, their partners, and healthcare professionals, focusing on sexual health and function. It includes educational materials, videos, and manuals on sexual devices and positioning aids to enhance sexual experiences. Expert-led lectures and articles provide systematic approaches to improving sexual satisfaction and functioning. The page emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of sexuality post-injury, aiming to set high standards in sexual health for the SCI and disabled populations.

The research topic page provides detailed information on various clinical studies and trials, emphasizing consumer education and understanding of the research process. It highlights centers focused on advancing technology and rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, including stroke and spinal cord injury. Additionally, the page outlines resources for finding and participating in clinical trials, offering comprehensive support and information for patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers.

The SCI resources in Spanish page provides links to information about spinal cord injuries, websites, and resources available in Spanish. This page offers access to educational materials and useful tools for Spanish-speaking individuals living with spinal cord injuries, making crucial information more accessible in their language.

The parenting page provides a comprehensive collection of resources and websites dedicated to supporting parents with disabilities. It offers valuable information on navigating the unique challenges of parenting with a disability, including accessibility

The Spinal Cord Injury Model System page provides valuable resources to make research accessible and practical for individuals with spinal cord injuries and their supporters. It offers a variety of patient-focused materials, including fact sheets on spasticity, skincare, pain, adaptive sports, employment, safe transfer techniques, depression, and exercise. The center also maintains a comprehensive directory of SCI Model System centers and their research projects. Additionally, the National Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems Database, established in 1973, serves as the largest and most extensive source of data on the characteristics and life course of individuals with SCI.

The sports, active living, & recreation topic page offers a variety of resources to support active lifestyles for individuals with SCI. It features guides on adaptive and inclusive fitness routines, physical activity guidelines, and strength training manuals tailored for those with spinal cord injuries. Additionally, the page highlights the importance of adaptive sports and recreation, providing practical advice on equipment use and health considerations. Users can also find comprehensive at-home fitness programs, nutritional guides, and detailed information on accessing accessible sports and recreation facilities.

The support groups/magazines/podcasts/blogs topic page offers a wealth of resources for individuals with SCI, their families, and healthcare professionals. It includes video libraries and online platforms that connect people with SCI to customized resources, covering life skills, parenting, relationships, activities, and travel. Additionally, it features social mentoring networks, lifestyle magazines promoting integration, and peer mentoring programs offering emotional support and valuable information.

The transportation topic page provides essential information for navigating accessible public transit options, including subways, buses, commuter rail networks, and ferries in New York City. It highlights various services such as accessible taxis, paratransit programs, and wheelchair-friendly vehicles, with detailed guides on how to access them. The page also covers transit systems in neighboring areas, ensuring people with spinal cord injuries have easy access to essential transportation options. Additionally, it provides resources for specific services like airport transportation and accessible shuttle services.

The Spinal Cord Injury travel, leisure, & arts page provides a wealth of resources for individuals with spinal cord injuries to enjoy accessible travel, recreation, and arts experiences. It offers travel guides, including wheelchair-friendly options for domestic and international destinations, as well as resources for accessible air travel. The page also highlights cultural opportunities like accessible music programs and disability-focused film festivals. Additionally, it supports creative ventures with grants for artists with spinal cord injuries and provides tools for exploring accessible attractions, from national parks to urban events.

The Spinal Cord Injury women's health page provides a range of resources dedicated to the unique health needs of women with spinal cord injuries. It includes information on reproductive health, pregnancy, and gynecological care, alongside resources that focus on mental and physical wellbeing. The page also offers access to national directories, educational materials, and support networks for women navigating healthcare challenges after SCI. Additionally, it features online communities for disabled parents, as well as practical tools and advice for parenting with a disability.

The Spinal Cord Injury work and education page offers a wealth of resources to assist individuals with spinal cord injuries in finding employment and educational opportunities. It provides information on vocational rehabilitation services, job training, and initiatives aimed at increasing workforce participation for people with disabilities. The page also highlights programs offering support for students with disabilities, such as scholarships, career development resources, and mentorship. Additionally, it outlines legal protections against employment discrimination and strategies for navigating the job application process with accessible accommodations.