Pediatric spinal cord injury: transition to adulthood

Issue title: Spinal Cord Injury

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Anderson, Caroline J.^; | Johnson, Kristen A. | Klaas, Sara J. | Vogel, Lawrence C.

Affiliations: Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park A Ave., Chicago, IL 60707-3392, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1 773 3855560; Fax: + 1 773 385-5488.

Abstract: Each year there are approximately 2000 children and adolescents who sustain spinal cord injuries (SCI) in the United States. The unique challenge of pediatric rehabilitation for these individuals and their families is, not only to provide efficient and effective rehabilitation after injury, but to guide these individuals throughout the years of childhood and adolescence. The ultimate goal is to assure that they are prepared for a smooth transition into adulthood. This article reviews the important transition issues of pediatric SCI for the patient and family. These issues include education, vocation, independence, sexuality, psychosocial development and long-term healthcare.

Keywords: Pediatric, Spinal cord injury, Transition, Rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/JVR-1998-10204

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 103-113, 1998