Pediatric spinal cord injury: transition to adulthood

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.