Rehabilitation after spinal cord injury

Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of rehabilitation following a spinal cord injury. At Origin centres, our physiotherapy programme is designed to address each patient’s individual needs, improve functional ability and support long-term independence. It includes:

• PNF neurophysiological techniques to stimulate correct movement patterns;
• electrostimulation using SIS electromagnetic fields to support muscle activation and prevent atrophy;
• strengthening exercises for postural muscles and both upper and lower limbs;
• training in independent transfers, including moving between bed, wheelchair and other surfaces;
• learning to get up from the floor safely and effectively;
• car transfer practice to restore mobility;
• wheelchair balance training, including control on slopes and uneven ground;
• outdoor wheelchair skills – in Otwock, patients practice on beautiful forest paths, while in Kraków they can practise in the park avenues that is next to the centre;
• self-catheterisation training for patients with functional hand movement;
• gait re-education using robotic devices as part of active verticalisation;
• exoskeleton training (available at Origin Kraków) to improve walking ability, increase endurance and strengthen muscles.

For patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries, it is often possible to regain the ability to walk, although this typically requires long-term, intensive rehabilitation. In cases of complete injuries, the chances are lower; however, continuous advances in rehabilitation methods and medical technology are creating new opportunities for improved mobility.

Regardless of the type of injury, it is essential that patients undergo comprehensive rehabilitation under the supervision of experienced specialists.

A spinal cord injury can also affect speech and swallowing. At Origin centres, patients receive support from a skilled team of speech therapists and speech-and-language pathologists, whose therapy may include:

• articulation exercises,
• breathing exercises,
• swallowing training,
• therapy for communication disorders.

For patients with a tracheostomy, the speech therapist’s role extends far beyond decannulation or teaching effective coughing techniques. They are instrumental in restoring and optimising the vital functions needed for natural communication and safe swallowing, which may have been impaired as a result of the tracheostomy.

A spinal cord injury is a life-changing event with consequences that reach far beyond the physical. Both patients and their families face profound emotional and psychological challenges, often requiring long-term and comprehensive support.

At our centres, we recognise how vital this care is at every stage of recovery. That is why our rehabilitation programme focuses not only on restoring physical abilities, but also on helping patients rebuild their emotional resilience, regain confidence, and embrace life with renewed hope and determination. Our goal is to empower each person to look ahead with strength, optimism, and a sense of purpose.

We provide professional, individualised nursing and care services designed to meet each patient’s unique needs. Our team ensures comfort, safety, and attentive support – 24 hours a day.

In addition to everyday assistance, our nursing staff also delivers specialised care, including:

• teaching self-catheterisation to patients with functioning hands,
• VAC therapy for the treatment of pressure sores – an advanced wound-healing method that uses continuous or intermittent negative pressure to promote faster recovery, even in hard-to-heal wounds,
• tracheotomy care.