Occupational Therapy for a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Occupational Therapy for a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Occupational therapy (OT) is a type of treatment that helps kids build the skills they need to do everyday activities.  Learn more about how OT can help after a spinal cord injury (SCI).
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What is Occupational Therapy (OT)?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a type of treatment that helps kids build the skills they need to do everyday activities or activities of daily living (ADLs). This may include getting dressed, feeding themselves, writing, playing or moving through their environment.

How Can Occupational Therapy Help After a SCI?

OT may work with your child to:

  • Do activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, toileting and getting dressed.
  • Play.
  • Build muscle strength.
  • Keep their body safe with splints and proper positioning.

Activities of Daily Living (ADL) After an SCI

Your child’s ADLs may change after a SCI. Your OT will work with you to help your child move safely and do as much as they can on their own at home, school and in the community.

What Equipment Will My Child Need After an SCI?

Your OT may suggest equipment to help your child safely do ADLs. They may also recommend changes to your home to help your child do more on their own. Some examples include:

  • Bathing: Bath and Shower Chairs, Long-Handled Sponge
  • Dressing: Reacher, Sock Aide, Dressing Stick
  • Toileting: Step Stool, Mirrors
  • Feeding: Universal Cuff

To Learn More, Review this Resource:

SCIRE Community (Spinal Cord Injury Research Evidence)

ALERT

Call your child’s provider, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.

Draft Number: 1377Revision Date: July 14, 2026

This content was created to help you care for your child and/or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.