Expanding knowledge about rehabilitation medicine and exploring new treatments.

The Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation is among the leaders in research focusing on maximizing functional ability and quality of life for people with physical impairments or disabilities.

Our faculty have a rich history of independent and collaborative research. We have won numerous research awards at regional and national meetings and have successfully competed for funding grants from the national organizations (Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, Paralyzed Veterans of America, National Multiple Sclerosis Society) and federal funding sources (NIH, DOD, and HHS).

Our research is anchored by three long-standing, federally funded grants (NIDILRR). These are the UAB Spinal Cord Injury Model System, continuously funded since 1972, the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, continuously funded since 1983, and UAB Traumatic Brain Injury Model System, continuously funded since 1998. Moreover, the Department of PM&R is among the research leaders in areas of adaptive sports, stroke, multiple sclerosis, eHealth, psychological well-being, and other areas of physical and cognitive research and outcomes.

The department has the knowledge, experience, resources, and history of successful research and innovation, and provides faculty, residents, and students excellent opportunities to explore and innovate in a highly collaborative environment.