The RSCICDV is committed to continuing its research efforts and contributing to new scientific knowledge on the advances of care and treatment in spinal cord injury. During the past five years, the Center's researchers have published more than 150 peer reviewed original articles, books and book chapters.

Current areas of investigation involve multicenter studies examining recovery of upper and lower extremity strength and function, and the development of international standards to measure improvements in walking. The RSCICDV is one of only five centers nationwide participating in a study utilizing body weight-supported ambulation therapy funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health. The RSCICDV is very involved in a number of multicenter drug trials and other therapeutic interventions as well.

As a Model SCI Center, the RSCICDV serves as lead Center or participates with other Model Centers across the country in a number of collaborative research projects. The RSCICDV also participates in the collection and storage of training and educational materials for spinal cord injury. For more information on the research projects currently under way, please contact the SCI Office at 215-955-6579.

Studies are supported by Federal agencies, NIDRR, NIH, drug companies and private philanthropy. A Research and Education fund has been established to support educational opportunities for the Center's staff members, residents and students including a visiting lecture series of both national and international visiting professors, and to provide seed money for research. Contributions to this fund are welcome.

Regional SCI centers, such as the Jefferson-Magee program, are helping millions of people with spinal cord injuries. Professionals with proven expertise in spinal cord injury care, rehabilitation and research, provide a life-long, cost-effective, coordinated system of care that offers clients with SCI the necessary resources for maximal recovery and return to independent living.