A fall from the scaffolding.
A trip down the ladder in the factory.
A road accident while coming back home.
A slip in the bathroom.

One second of mishap and life changes forever.

The extent of spinal cord injury (SCI), sustained mostly after mishaps and accidents, vary from person to person. Medical interventions that usually include surgeries, often in emergency conditions, are complex and expensive. While hospitalization takes care of immediate urgencies, post medical therapy is required for healing the psychological damage.

And this is where the primary role of APD’s Spinal Cord Unit (SCU) begins. APD has dedicated an entire unit to address the repercussions of this complex injury, given that the social and physical infrastructure have not budgeted for people in wheel chair or using orthotic aids.

Comforting interactions, words of empathy and encouragement by the staff of SCu gradually reach out to the person with SCI, numbed as he is with the shock of realization that his life will be very different from then on. Their soothing words re-kindle his spirit as he rehearses each and every simple movement with them. These prepare him to overcome limitations in movement and ability in all his personal chores. The new found confidence and hope begins to replace desolation and gradually the person feels enterprising again to make efforts on his own towards a fulfilling life.

At the same time, APD believes that addressing spinal cord injuries cannot be person specific. Rather the individual is a primary component of an inter-linked scenario involving internal and external relations, and physical spaces at home, work and office.

SCU’s rehabilitation interventions include support in medical care and therapy, psychological and vocational rehabilitatin. This is done by:

• Gaining functional independence for the person with disability
• Restoration of lost neuromuscular function by physiotherapy,
• Occupational therapy and training in usage of orthotic aids or mobility aids like wheel chair.
• Engaging persons with SCI in sports and recreational activities
• Training in various vocational skills and support in placement
• Working closely with family members to initiate the process of positive acceptance and in creating a supporting environment at home.

Integration with self-help groups and support through legal and alternate career counseling