# Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC)

## Model Systems for Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research

* [About the Model Systems](/about-model-systems): Model Systems are specialized programs of care in spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and burn injury (Burn). Model Systems pool information and conduct research intended to improve the long-term functional, vocational, cognitive, and quality-of-life outcomes in individuals with TBI, SCI, or burn injury.
* [Directory of Model Systems](/sci/model-system-centers): In this directory, you can explore each Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Model System center’s website for additional information or resources
* [Model System Center Directory](/tbi/model-system-centers): In this directory, you can explore each Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Model System center’s website for additional information or resources. 
* [Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Model System](/about-model-systems/TBI): The Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) Program began in 1987 to improve care and outcomes for individuals with TBI. There are currently 16 TBIMS centers funded.
* [Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Model System](/about-model-systems/sci): The Spinal Cord Injury Model System (SCIMS) Program began in 1970 to improve care and outcomes for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). There are currently 18 SCIMS centers funded.
* [Burn Model System](/about-model-systems/burn): The Burn Model System (BMS) Program began in 1994 to improve care and outcomes for individuals with burn injuries. There are 4 BMS centers funded.

## Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
* [Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) for SCI](/sci/factsheets/functional-electrical-stimulation-fes-sci): People with a spinal cord injury (SCI) often have weakness in their arm, leg, or trunk muscles. In many cases, functional electrical stimulation (FES) can help with weak muscles. FES delivers small electrical pulses to weak muscles. This helps muscles to contract and move body parts in useful ways. FES uses sticky pads called electrodes to deliver the pulses in a controlled manner.
* [Personal Care Attendants and Spinal Cord Injury](/sci/factsheets/personal-care-attendants-and-spinal-cord-injury): Gain independence with a personal care attendants (PCAs). Learn how a PCA can help with daily tasks and explore resources to help find and afford PCA services.
* [Robotic Exoskeletons for Overground Walking for People With Spinal Cord Injury](/sci/factsheets/exoskeleton-and-spinal-cord-injury): A robotic exoskeletons can help some people with spinal cord injury (SCI) stand, walk, and move around without a harness system or on a treadmill. Walking with one of these devices is called exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW). EAW has benefits but also risks and limitations.
* [A Guide to Inpatient Rehabilitation Services for People With Spinal Cord Injury](/sci/factsheets/guide-inpatient-rehabilitation-services-people-spinal-cord-injury): What You Need to Know Before Choosing an Inpatient Rehabilitation Center After a spinal cord injury (SCI), people need rehabilitation (rehab) to help them reach the highest level of functional independence.
* [Sexuality & Sexual Functioning After SCI](/sci/factsheets/sexuality-sexual-functioning-after-sci): SCI doesn't have to limit your sexuality. Explore ways to maintain emotional connection, physical touch options, and resources for a fulfilling sex life.
* [Adaptive Sports and Recreation for People with SCI](/sci/factsheets/adaptive-sports-and-recreation): Improve your mood, self esteem, and overall health after a spinal cord injury Almost any activity can be adapted to your level, lifestyle, and interests. 
* [Adaptive Sports and Recreation after SCI](/adaptive-sports-and-recreation-after-sci)
* [Meeting Other People with SCI Through Sports](/sci/podcast/meeting-other-people-sci-through-sports): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise and Fitness After Spinal Cord Injury Katie Smith, SCI Survivor, discusses Meeting Other People with SCI Through Sports.
* [The Benefits of Team Sports](/sci/podcast/benefits-team-sports): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise and Fitness After Spinal Cord Injury Michael Boninger M D, researcher, discusses The Benefits of Team Sports. 
* [Accessing Adaptive Equipment](/sci/podcast/accessing-adaptive-equipment): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise and Fitness After Spinal Cord Injury Lynn Worobey, PhD, DPT, ATP, researcher, discusses Accessing Adaptive Equipment.
* [Exercise After Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)](/sci/factsheets/exercise-after-spinal-cord-injury): Regular exercise is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle for people with spinal cord injuries SCI Learn the benefits, safety tips and how to get started.
* [A Range of Fitness Activities](/sci/podcast/range-fitness-activities): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise and Fitness After Spinal Cord Injury Amanda Harrington, M D , Medical Director, discusses A Range of Fitness Activities So you can get a little bit of cardiovascular benefit from any type of movement So pushing a manual wheelchair itself from day to day activities is more active than laying in bed all day So some people will benefit from just doing extra manual wheelchair pushing others may benefit from doing more of their day to day activities.
* [The Therapeutic Feeling of Fitness](/sci/podcast/therapeutic-feeling-fitness): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise and Fitness After Spinal Cord Injury Lee Tempest, SCI Survivor, discusses The Therapeutic Feeling of Fitness. 
* [Maintaining Your Manual or Power Wheelchair](/sci/factsheets/maintenance-guide-users-manual-and-power-wheelchairs): Keep your wheelchair manual power running smoothly with regular maintenance and professional yearly checkup Access our guide to learn what to inspect.
* [Wheelchairs for Everyday Life](/sci/factsheets/wheelchair-information): Choose a wheelchair that truly meets your needs Explore manual and power wheelchair options, factors to consider, and resources to find the perfect fit. 
* [Finding the Right Wheelchair for SCI Consumers](/sci/factsheets/getting-right-wheelchair-what-sci-consumer-needs-know): Essential information for people with SCI to consider when choosing the right wheelchair Learn about wheelchairs available, features, and customization options
* [Bowel Management After Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)](/sci/factsheets/bowel-function-after-spinal-cord-injury): Understand bowel problems after SCI with these practical tips and strategies Learn how to maintain regularity through diet and improve your quality of life.


## Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
* [Relationships After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/relationships-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can impact relationships. Learn how to navigate challenges, find support, and rebuild strong, intimate connections with loved ones.
* [Relationships After TBI](/tbi/videos/relationships-after-tbi): Our featured video and brief video clips show the impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on a couple’s relationship. Hugh and Rosemary Rawlins share how they worked with TBI Model System researchers to address challenges they faced after Hugh experienced a TBI.
* [Sexuality After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/sexuality-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Changes in sexual functioning are common after TBI. Understand common changes in sexual function and learn communication strategies rebuilding intimacy.
* [Sexuality after a Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/slideshows/sexuality-after-traumatic-brain-injury): View our slide show on sexuality and sexual interaction after a Traumatic Brain Injury.
* [Depression After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/depression-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Depression is common among brain injury survivors. Learn what causes depression and options for treatment, including medication and therapy.
* [Changes in Emotion After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/changes-emotion-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Feelings of sadness, frustration and loss are common after brain injury. Learn how TBI can affect your emotions such as irritability, depression, and anxiety.
* [Depression after a Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/slideshows/depression-after-traumatic-brain-injury): View our slide show on depression after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
* [Emotional Problems after a Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/slideshows/emotional-problems-after-traumatic-brain-injury): View our slide show on emotional problems after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
* [TBI and Depression](/tbi/videos/tbi-and-depression): Our featured video and brief video clips show the impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on depression. Brandon Blake and Michelle Kauffman share how they worked with TBI Model System researchers to address challenges they faced with depression after experiencing a TBI.
* [What Is Depression?](/tbi/videos/what-depression): Part of the Hot Topics Series: TBI and Depression.
* [Social Skills After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/social-skills-after-traumatic-brain-injury): TBI may affect your social skills and the ability to manage emotions. Improve communication and rebuild social connections with these strategies and tips.
* [Understanding Behavior Changes after TBI](/tbi/factsheets/understanding-behavior-changes-after-tbi): Behavior changes can happen after TBI. Individuals with TBI & caregivers are encouraged to learn why these change occur and strategies to manage them.
* [Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)](/sci/factsheets/posttraumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd-and-spinal-cord-injury-sci): What Is PTSD Most people experience some type of traumatic event in their lifetime This may be a car crash, a serious injury, a physical or sexual assault, a combat experience, or a natural disaster Negative emotional reactions and symptoms are common in the days and weeks after a traumatic event They often go away over time.

## Burn Injury
* [Relationships After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/relationships-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can impact relationships. Learn how to navigate challenges, find support, and rebuild strong, intimate connections with loved ones.
* [Relationships After TBI](/tbi/videos/relationships-after-tbi): Our featured video and brief video clips show the impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on a couple’s relationship. Hugh and Rosemary Rawlins share how they worked with TBI Model System researchers to address challenges they faced after Hugh experienced a TBI.
* [Risks of Alcohol Use After Traumatic Brain Injury](/tbi/factsheets/alcohol-use-after-traumatic-brain-injury): Learn about the risks of alcohol use for people with TBI, including slower recovery, an increased risk of seizures, another brain injury, and depression.
* [Find Relief for Post Burn Injury Itchy Skin](/burn/factsheets/itchy-skin-after-burn-injury): Itchy skin is common after a burn injury Understand the cause of the irritation and get treatment tips including topical creams, and lifestyle changes.
* [Competitive Athletes After Burn](/burn/podcast/competitive-athletes-after-burn): This is a part of the Hot Topic podcast series from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center on Exercise After Burn Injury Cheri Blauwet, MD, researcher, discusses Competitive Athletes After Burn Cheri Blauwet, M D Director, Kelley Institute for Adaptive Sports Research Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. 

## MSKTC Ambassadors and Survivor Stories
* [Featured TBI Ambassadors](/tbi/ambassador-program/directory)
* [Featured SCI Ambassadors](/sci/ambassador-program/directory)
* [Featured Burn Ambassadors](/burn/ambassador-program/directory)

## Espanol
* [Guía para cuidadores familiares para seleccionar programas de rehabilitación para personas con trastornos de la conciencia (TDK)](/tbi/recursos-en-espanol/guia-para-cuidadores-familiares-para-seleccionar-programas-de)
* [Caminata Asistida por Exoesqueleto](/sci/recursos-en-espanol/caminata-asistida-por-exoesqueleto)
* [Comprensión y afrontamiento de la irritabilidad, la ira y la agresión después de una LCT](/tbi/recursos-en-espanol/comprension-y-afrontamiento-de-la-irritabilidad-la-ira-y-la-agresion-despues-de)
* [Cambios de conducta tras una lesión cerebral traumática moderada o grave](/tbi/factsheets/cambios-de-conducta-tras-una-lesion-cerebral-traumatica-moderada-o-grave): ¿Cuáles son algunos posibles cambios de comportamiento Las personas que padecen una lesión cerebral traumática LCT de moderada a grave pueden presentar cambios en su comportamiento Las personas con una LCT y sus familias enfrentan algunos comportamientos comunes. 
* [Problemas emocionales después de TBI](/tbi/recursos-en-espanol/problemas-emocionales-despues-de-tbi)
* [Habilidades sociales después de TBI](/tbi/recursos-en-espanol/habilidades-sociales-despues-de-tbi)
* [Claves para mantener una piel sana a medida que uno envejece](/sci/infographics/claves-para-mantener-una-piel-sana-medida-que-uno-envejece)
* [Cuidado de la piel y de yagas](/sci/recursos-en-espanol/cuidado-de-la-piel-y-de-yagas)
* [Causas y riesgos de las úlceras por presión después de una lesión medular](/sci/factsheets/causas-y-riesgos-de-ulceras-por-presion): Las llagas por presión y las úlceras por presión son comunes en las personas con lesiones de la médula espinal LME Explore por qué ocurren las úlceras por presión y obtenga estrategias preventivas.

## Spinal Cord Injury Español
* [Cómo reconocer y tratar las úlceras por presión](/sci/factsheets/como-reconocer-y-tratar-las-ulceras-por-presion): ¿Cómo puedo saber si tengo una úlcera por presión Primeras señales Una de las primeras señales de una posible úlcera en la piel es un área enrojecida, descolorida u oscurecida una piel afroamericana tal vez luzca color púrpura, azulada o reluciente Tal vez se sienta dura o cálida cuando se toca Una úlcera por presión ha comenzado si usted remueve la presión de un área enrojecida por 10 a 30 minutos y el color de la piel no vuelve a su color normal después de ese tiempo. 
* [Guía esencial para prevenir las úlceras por presión](/sci/factsheets/como-prevenir-ulceras-por-presion): Los controles regulares de la piel y el alivio de la presión son cruciales para prevenir las úlceras por presión en las personas con LME Aprenda técnicas y consejos para mantener una piel sana.
* [Tratamiento quirúrgico y reconstructivo de las lesiones por presión](/sci/factsheets/tratamiento-quirurgico-y-reconstructivo-de-las-lesiones-por-presion): ¿Qué son las lesiones por presión El término lesiones por presión es una nueva versión de lo que antes se conocía como llagas por presión , úlceras por presión , úlceras de decúbito , escaras de decúbito o pérdida de la integridad cutánea El término cambió porque no todos los estadios de las lesiones causadas por presión son llagas o úlceras abiertas Sin embargo, el significado se parece.
* [Prevención de úlceras por presión en lesiones de la médula espinal (LME)](/sci/factsheets/areas-con-alto-riesgo-de-desarrollar-ulceras-por-presion): Las áreas con prominencias óseas son vulnerables a las úlceras por presión Explore las áreas con mayor riesgo para las personas con lesión de la médula espinal LME y cómo prevenirlas.