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Driving again is a common goal following a spinal cord injury. Even if you are unable to walk, you might still be able to drive someday. Even some people with hand weakness can learn to drive with a modified vehicle. This is done by installing hand controls and wheelchair access. A vehicle can also be modified to provide passenger access to a wheelchair.

Cleaning your drainage bag is a common way to prolong the life of your bag and prevent infection. Two commonly used cleaning solutions are available to be mixed at home.

When using a wheelchair, transferring from one surface to another is an important skill. At first, you might need to use a transfer board or help from an assistant. Always practice transfers with your therapist before trying them alone.

Sex and sexuality are important parts of being human, however after a spinal cord injury (SCI) many things can change. The way you experience your body may be different now. Many people with a spinal cord injury are concerned about their sexuality and sexual health but don’t know how, when or who to ask for information. At Parkwood Institute, we have developed a program to provide education and support to patients regarding sexuality and sexual health. A member of your health care team will talk to you and answer any questions or concerns you may have about your sexual health. If you have a...

When you do intermittent catheterization (IC), you need to empty your bladder on a schedule. The timing of your next IC will depend on how much urine you had during your last IC.

The bathroom is one of the most challenging rooms to get around with a wheelchair. There are many ways to modify your bathroom to make the shower, sink and toilet more accessible. The options you have to modify your bathroom are limited by your budget and space.

Bladder infections are one of the most common health issues after spinal cord injury. A bladder infection is also called a urinary tract infection (UTI). This is because the bladder is part of your urinary tract. Your urinary tract includes your kidneys, urethra, and ureters.

A Foley (indwelling) catheter is a thin tube that is inserted into your bladder. It stays in your bladder for up 4 weeks at a time to drain urine. Foley catheters are often only used for short periods of time. When other options don’t work, they can be the main way you empty your bladder.

After a spinal cord injury, you are at high risk of getting a pressure sore (bed sore). A pressure sore is a wound caused from constant pressure to the skin. This can cause serious damage your skin. Shifting your weight to reduce pressure is the best way to allow blood to get to your skin.

Spinal cord injuries can affect your strength and your reaction speed. If you are able to walk after your injury, you can be at higher risk of falling. Certain things can be done to prevent falls. Knowing what to do when you have a fall can help you stay safe and get help quickly.

This diary is intended to be used every day to capture information that can help you and your doctor better understand and manage your migraine headaches.

Men: After spinal cord injury, you might not be able to control your bladder. Intermittent catheterization (IC) is used to help you empty your bladder by using a catheter.

Female: After spinal cord injury, you might not be able to control your bladder. Intermittent catheterization (IC) is used to help you empty your bladder by using a catheter.

After a spinal cord injury, it is common to no longer feel the need to empty your bowel. You also might not be able to start your bowel movement like you used to. This resource provides information about digital stimulation to help trigger bowel movements.

A lift is often used to transfer people with limited movement from one surface to another. This handout gives general guidelines on how to use a lift. Always use instructions from your lift’s manual for proper operation. Practice transfers with a therapist before trying it with your assistants.

Getting into a car can be a challenging transfer. At first, you might need one or two people to help. The amount of help you need depends on the height of the car and your skill. With practice, some people learn to transfer alone. Always practice transfers with your therapist before trying alone.

A wheelchair is a great mobility device for getting around. Like any equipment, they have wear and tear. You will need to service your wheelchair to keep it in good working condition. This helps keep your wheelchair safe and prevents problems before they occur. In case of an emergency, it’s good practice to carry a cell phone with you.

Fibre and fluid intake is essential to keep your bowels moving effectively after a spinal cord injury. This resource provides information about managing your diet for optimal bowel function. This handout was created by health care professionals at the Lyndhurst Centre, home of University Health Network's Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Program in Toronto, ON.