Assistive technology for spinal cord injury

Overview

If you've experienced a spinal cord injury (SCI), you may benefit from assistive technology or adaptive equipment as you return to your home and job. Assistive technology may help you improve your physical functioning and better adapt to the routine of daily living.

The Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Program at Mayo Clinic's campus in Minnesota offers a wide range of assistive technology and adaptive equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, including:

• Communication options. Some people with spinal cord injuries have difficulty using a computer or phone or writing. Assistive technology options may help you to use computers and other communication tools at school or work and during other activities.

  Therapists will evaluate you to determine which adaptive equipment may help you. If you need a speech-generating device or other augmentative communication device, a speech-language pathologist will evaluate and recommend the most appropriate options and provide ongoing intervention as needed.

• Other assistive technology options. People who have impaired hand function or mobility impairments often have difficulty operating controls around their home. Therapists will evaluate your need for assistive technology to live more independently and improve your ability to control your environment.

  The Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Program's unit has assistive technology available for you to independently adjust your bed, operate television controls and use other controls. The unit also has mobile computers available with assistive technology software and device options to allow independent access and practice using a computer.