 |
In The News: Archives
UW faculty take Seattle magazine's 2018 Top PM&R Doctors spots--again!
March 2018 - The title of Seattle magazine's Top PM&R Doctor is a familar one to Drs. Sue Apkon, Stanley Herring, and Terry Massagli. The three were named among Seattle's top PM&R doctors by Seattle magazine as Seattle's top PM&R docs are current faculty. All have been selected multiple times--this is Dr. Herring's tenth year in the list! In a further showing for the program, two of this year's remaining three spots went to former UW PM&R residents. Congratulations!
From Duct Tape to Velcro: Using Everyday Materials to Solve Everyday Problems
February 2018 - Pipe insulation, binder clips, zip ties--Curt Johnson from the Washington Assistive Technology Act Program demonstrates ways to turn these things and other low-cost materials into assistive devices in "From Duct Tape to Velcro: Using Everyday Materials to Solve Everyday Problems," a video from the UW Northwest Regional Spinal Cord Injury System. The presentation was filmed at their May 31, 2017 SCI forum. View their other videos or find out about future SCI forums at their website.
Read the October newsletter from the UW Traumatic Brain Injury Model System
October 2017 - The UW Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) has released its October 2017 newsletter. Check out the information on new and ongoing studies, the Seattle Pediatric Concussion Research Collaborative, and more! Read the October issue...
2017 Spinal Cord Injury Wellness Summit
November 2017 - Share recreation ideas with SCI peers, take a hands-on wheelchair maintenance class, participate in discussion groups, and enjoy the refreshments, exhibits, and raffle at the 6th annual SCI Wellness Summit. The Summit will be from 12:30-5:00 on Nov. 4, 2017 at The Brig in Magnuson Park. It is presented by the UW's Northwest Regional SCI System in partnership with Outdoors for All, the Here and Now Project, and the SCI Association of Washington. The event is free to the public, but registration is requested. Learn more...
Three faculty members among Seattle Met's Top Doctors 2017
August 2017 - Our department contains three of the four rehabilitation medicine doctors selected in the 2017 Seattle Met magazine's 2017 Top Doctors issue: Drs. Sue Apkon, Stan Herring, and Janna Friedly. Seattle Met surveyed health care practitioners throughout King, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Pierce Counties who nominated doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners based on experience, competency, patient satisfaction, and rapport across specialties to deliver the best patient care.
UW researchers lead multi-institutional study on treating previously incurable, inherited neuromuscular disease in dogs
February 2017 - Labs led by Casey Childers, DO, PhD and David Mack, PhD collaborated with institutions from France and across the US on a treatment for myotubular myopathy, a fatal muscle wasting disease which occurs in dogs and in human boys. The researchers found a way to safely replace the disease-causing MTM gene with a healthy gene throughout the entire musculature of affected dogs. The method may translate to human applications.Read the full article...
US News & World Report Ranks University of Washington #4 in the nation for rehabilitation care
August 2016 - University of Washington continues to hold the #4 spot nationally for rehabilitation care according to the most recent US News & World Report rankings; the best on this side of the Rockies. We also again ranked #1 in Washington State. Scoring is based on a national survey of physicians who are board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Further information about the US News & World Report rankings can be obtained at their website: http://www.usnews.com
At Harborview, Pokémon Go is more than a game
July 2016 - Doctors and researchers with the UW Medicine Burn Center at Harborview are testing the use of Pokémon Go to help patients tune out pain while staying mobile. The Seattle Times interviewed Dr. Shelley Wiechman, rehabilitation psychologist on the pediatric burn service, about the uses of virtual reality and games in physical therapy. Read the full article...
"Anti-gravity" treadmill uses air pressure to lift recovering athletes for rehabilitation
July 2016 - Dr. Mark Harrast discusses the use of the AlterG treadmill for runner rehabilitation. The machine uses air pressure to lift the patient slightly, reducing their body weight by up to 80%. This allows a doctor to adjust how much load is placed on the injured area while the patient works on returning to running. Read more about the process here...
Occupational Therapy students present their graduate projects
June 2016 - UW Master of Occupational Therapy students presented their capstone graduate projects June 8th at a Community Symposium at the Center for Urban Horticulture with close to 200 community clinicians, faculty, students, family, and friends in attendance. Each group of 4 students presented the program development work they had completed over the past year in response to a need identified by a community clinic or facility. The symposium was followed by a graduation ceremony as the students transition to 6 months of internships (Fieldwork IIs). Graduation speakers included Janet Powell, PhD, OTR/L, OT Division Head; Jeannette Murphy, OTR/L, 2016 OT Division Alumna of the Year, Regional Manager Injury Prevention and Ergonomics Providence Health & Services; and student speakers Katie Gallagher and Stephanie Kiracofe. Posters with more details about each of the projects can be seen here.
2016 SCI Wellness Summit: Spotlight on Technology
May 2016 - Learn about the wonderful world of assistive technology (AT) for making life easier and increasing independence for individuals with SCI at this half-day educational symposium for individuals with SCI, family members, caregivers and health professionals. AT topics range from DIY projects to brain-computer interfaces. The fifth annual Summit will take place on Saturday, May 21, from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is presented by the UW's Northwest Regional SCI System and the SCI Transitions and Wellness Program and is free to the public. Learn more...
UW faculty and former residents sweep Seattle magazine's 2016 Top PM&R Doctors spots
February 2016 - Four of the eight doctors who were named by Seattle magazine as Seattle's top PM&R docs are current faculty. Congratulations to Drs. Sue Apkon, Stanley Herring, Teresa Massagli and Maria Reyes! The remaining four spots went to former UW PM&R residents. Congratulations also to Dr. Brian Krabak, named as one of the city's top Sports Medicine doctors. Seattle compiled their 16th annual peer recommended roster of doctors through the 15,422 surveys they received earlier this year from local physicians. The survey asked physicians to name the provider they would recommend to loved ones, regardless of hospital, clinic or health plan affilitation.
Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation Counseling receive UWMC Service League grants
February 2016 - Occupational Therapy and Rehabilitation Counseling were recipients of grants from the UWMC Service League. OT's grant enabled them to print copies of their 'Rehab and Beyond' manual to educate patients and their families about the inpatient process, and also have the manual translated into Spanish. OT also received an iPad which has been a useful occupational therapy tool. Rehab Counseling received several iPads through the grant, which have significantly impacted patients’ quality of life, education, and advocacy. To read more, visit page 3 of the UWMC Volunteer Voice.
Martha Ortiz, Patient Services Specialist, receives UW Medicine Cares Award
January 2016 - Congratulations to our patient services specialist Martha Ortiz, recipient of a Fall 2015 UW Medicine Cares Award. The UW Medicine Cares Award was established in 2013 to formally recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and excellence of those in the UW Medicine community who consistently exemplify the UW Medicine Service Culture Guidelines. The award is presented biannually to four providers, four healthcare professionals, and two HMC teams at each of UW Medicine's entities.
Study by Sujata Pradhan, PT, PhD brings together fitness trackers and people with Parkinson's
December 2015 - Dr. Sujata Pradhan is leading a study that uses Fitbits and Sensoria socks to monitor activity level and gait in people who have Parkinson’s disease. Using this data, she will be looking at the relation between activity levels, function, and gait characteristics with the goals of enabling the development of physical activity recommendations for people with Parkinson's and creating assessments that can catch changes due to the disease earlier. The study is supported by the Institute of Translational Health Sciences’ Transitional Research scholars Program. Read more about Dr. Pradhan's study...
UW Medicine volunteers at 2015 Seattle Marathon
November 2015 - Dr. Mark Harrast, Medical Director for the Seattle Marathon as well as UW Professor, discussed the medical services provided by UWMC and others at the 2015 Seattle Marathon. The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine was represented at the aid stations with 3 faculty, 9 residents, and students from the OT and P&O programs volunteering. View the NewsBeat article and slideshow, or read Dr. Harrast's welcome letter to the 2015 marathon participants.
New Traumatic Brain Injury Model System website
November 2015 - The UW Traumatic Brain Injury Model System (TBIMS) website has undergone a complete renovation to make it easier to use and give it a more modern look. The website provides comprehensive information about TBIMS, including research studies, as well as links to many fabulous TBI resources such as TBI Infocomics, factsheets, and support groups. Visit the new TBMIS website...
Dr. Herring interviewed regarding youth sports and concussions
October 2015 - The Seattle Times interviewed Dr. Stanley Herring, Dr. Richard Ellenbogen from the UW Department of Neurological Surgery, and Jeff Miller, NFL senior vice president for Health and Safety Policy regarding current knowledge and next steps in concussion reduction in youth sports. Read the full interview...
Dawn Ehde, Ph.D. receives 2015 UW Medicine Excellence in Mentoring Award
September 2015 - Dr. Dawn Ehde was one of two recipients selected for the 2015 UW Medicine Excellence in Mentoring Award. This award recognizes the accomplishments of School of Medicine faculty in advancing excellence in mentorship of students and faculty, particularly women. Dr. Ehde is an educator and clinician in the rehabilitation psychology and neuropsychology programs.
Sports Health and Safety Institute launched with help from NFL
August 2015 - UW Medicine has announced the launch of the Sports Health and Safety Institute to advance research, education and advocacy for the prevention and treatment of sports-related concussions. Led by Dr. Stanley Herring and by Dr. Richard Ellenbogen from the UW Department of Neurological Surgery, the Institute will include faculty from across disciplines, including neuroscience, sports medicine, global health and engineering. The establishment of the Institute is made possible by a $2.5 million donation by the National Football League (NFL). Read more...
US News & World Report Ranks University of Washington #4 in the nation for rehabilitation care
July 2015 - We are pleased to report that the University of Washington has again been ranked #4 nationally for rehabilitation care in the most recent US News & World Report rankings. In addition, we ranked #1 in Washington State. Scoring is based on a national survey of physicians who are board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. This reputational ranking reflects well on our clinical programs throughout the UW Medicine system, including the Rehabilitation Medicine programs at University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle Children's, the Veteran's Administration Puget Sound Health Care System, and our Eastside Specialty Clinic. Further information about the US News & World Report rankings can be obtained at their website: http://www.usnews.com
Two faculty members among Seattle Magazine's Top Doctors 2015
July 2015 - Drs. Sue Apkon and Ross Hays were selected in Seattle magazine's 2015 Top Doctors issue. Seattle magazine compiled their 15th annual peer recommended roster of doctors through the nearly 18,000 surveys they received earlier this year from local physicians. The survey asked physicians to name the provider they would recommend to loved ones, regardless of hospital, clinic or health plan affilitation.
André Kajlich interviewed in UW NewsBeat
July 2015 - André Kajlich, research assistant at UW Center on Outcomes Research in Rehabilitation, ultra-athlete, and hand-cycle racer was interviewed about what drives him in his work and in racing. Read more...
Return to SnowWorld: How virtual-reality games reduce pain
May 2015 - SnowWorld, developed by Drs. Dave Patterson, Hunter Hoffman, and Sam Sharar, dramatically reduces the pain experienced by burn patients during procedures using a virtual-reality game. Now the team is investigating how it affects the brain so they can make treatment even more effective. Read more...
Kurt Johnson, Ph.D. appointed Alvord Endowed Professor in Multiple Sclerosis Research
May 2015 - Kurt L. Johnson, Ph.D. has been named the Nancy and Buster Alvord Endowed Professor in Multiple Sclerosis Research. The position was created with proceeds from a fundraising effort by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Washington Chapter to honor Nancy D. Alvord and the late Ellsworth C. “Buster” Alvord, Jr., M.D., and to support a research scientist who specializes in multiple sclerosis. Read more...
Julie Grant, OT student, interviewed in UW Medicine magazine
Spring 2015 - OT student Julie Grant was interviewed in the Spring 2015 edition of UW Medicine Magazine about her choice of the UW OT program and becoming a professional problem-solver. Read the article...
2015 SCI Wellness Summit - April 25
April 2015 - The fourth annual half-day educational program for individuals with SCI, family members, caregivers and health professionals will take place on Saturday, April 25, from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. It is presented by the Northwest Regional SCI System and the SCI Transitions and Wellness Program and located at the University of Washington. Thanks to our underwriters and supporters, this event is free to the public. Special guest Aaron Bunnell, MD, will give the keynote talk on “The Benefits of Recreation and Exercise for Individuals with SCI.” Learn more...
Spinal Cord Injury ReWalk™ Exoskeleton Walking Program
January 2015 - The UW Medical Center has launched the Spinal Cord Injury ReWalk Exoskeleton Walking Program. This is a pilot program to provide individuals with paraplegic spinal cord injury/dysfunction the experience of robotic-assisted ambulation using the ReWalk Robotic Exoskeleton. Read more...
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Winter Newsletter now available
March 2014 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Winter edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact the newsletter editor at Rnews@uw.edu.
Doctor spotlight on Dr. Herring
Winter 2014 - Dr. Stanley Herring was interviewed by Seattle magazine regarding his work in sports medicine and concussion prevention. Dr. Herring is a team physician for the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners and a consultant for the Seattle Storm, as well as medical director of Sports, Spine and Orthopedic Health for UW Medicine and co-medical director of the Sports Concussion Program, a partnership between UW Medicine and Seattle Children's. Read more...
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Fall Newsletter now available
October 2013 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Fall edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact the newsletter editor at Rnews@uw.edu.
UW Medicine Sports Medicine Center at Husky Stadium Open House
September 2013 - Please join us as we celebrate the opening of our new Sports Medicine Center location at Husky Stadium. We are excited to support the active lifestyles of our local community and look forward to getting to know you. Stop by our open house to see where you can receive the same care that the Huskies do. For more information read here.
The new Sports Medicine Clinic is now open!
September 2013 - The brand new University of Washington Sports Medicine Clinic has opened! The clinic is located underneath Husky Football Stadium, accessible from the South end of the stadium. To read more, and see pictures of the grand opening, read here.
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Summer Newsletter now available
July 2013 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Summer edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact the newsletter editor at Rnews@uw.edu.
Tom McNalley and patient Nick Trout featured by King 5 News.
July 2013 - Dr. Tom McNalley takes a sky diving trip with a paralized rehabilitation patient for his 18th birthday. Read the full article:
Janna Friedly featured expert on the Dr. Oz Show
May 2013 - Dr. Janna Friedly, assistant professor, discusses back pain on the Dr. Oz Show. Watch the episode:
2013 SCI Wellness Summit - May 18
May 2013 - The second annual half-day educational program for individuals with SCI, family members, caregivers and health professionals will take place on Saturday, May 18, from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. It is presented by the Northwest Regional SCI System and the SCI Transitions and Wellness Program and located at the University of Washington. Thanks to our underwriters and supporters, this event is free to the public. Special guest Dan P. Lammertse, MD, will give the keynote talk on “SCI Research and the Hope for Cure: Where are We Today?” Learn more...
Deborah Kartin receives 2012 UW Medicine Award for Excellence in Mentoring
May 2013 - Dr. Deborah Kartin has received the 2012 UW Medicine Award for Excellence in Mentoring. Dr. Kartin, professor, is committed to incorporating an interdisciplinary perspective in her courses for the DPT program that include content related to professional development, evidence-based practice, measurement, and critical analysis of the research literature. She also teaches core courses for the Ph.D. Program in Rehabilitation Science. Read more...
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Spring Newsletter now available
April 2013 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Spring edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact the newsletter editor at Rnews@uw.edu.
Chicago area foundation funds X-Link Myotubular Myopathy Research
April 2013 - The Where There’s a Will There’s a Cure Foundation recently made its first ever donation to support the work being done by Dr. Martin “Casey” Childers in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. Daniel and Melanie Whiston of Geneva, IL formed the foundation in 2012 to fund research for treatments of Myotubular Myopathy. Daniel Whiston and his father, Brian Whiston, presented the $50,000 donation prior to a lecture given by Dr. Childers at the Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine on April 2nd. Thank you Daniel and Melanie, and to their family and friends!
Bellevue Reporter editor 'discovers' Harborview Medical Center
February 2013 - Bellevue Reporter editor Craig Groshart writes about his 'eye-opening' discoveries during a tour of Harborview Medical Center. Part of Groshart's tour included a demonstration of SnowWorld, a groundbreaking experiment in virtual reality for pain control developed by Dr. Dave Patterson and his colleague, Dr. Hunter Hoffman.
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Winter Newsletter now available
January 2013 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Winter edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact newsletter editor at Rnews@uw.edu.
"Plastics Unwrapped" exhibit now at Burke Museum
January 2013 - Beyond emphasizing plastic waste, the "Plastics Unwrapped" exhibit now on display at the Burke Museum, also shows how plastics are used in the military, toy industry, and health sciences. Rehabilitation represents a large portion of the health care section with a display on prosthetics and orthotics. Dr. Jennifer Zumsteg, assistant professor, with the help of Molly McCoy, teaching associate, was a science advisor for the exhibit which runs now through May 27.
Mystery of multiple sclerosis in the Pacific Northwest
November 2012 - This fascinating KUOW.org story explores the mystery of why the Pacific Northwest has one of the highest rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) in the world and how it could lead to new treatments. Dr. George Kraft, professor emeritus and director of the Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center at the University of Washington, shares his expertise on the subject, including why the rates are elevated in our area and potential causes of the disease.
Dr. Dave Patterson's groundbreaking virtual reality for pain control research featured on NBC's Rock Center
November 2012 - In a segment that aired on Nov. 15 on NBC's Rock Center, Lieutenant Sam Brown discusses how the video game SnowWorld helped ease his pain more effectively than narcotics during treatment for severe burn injuries he sustained on a tour of duty in Afghanistan. SnowWorld is a groundbreaking experiment in virtual reality for pain control developed by Dr. Dave Patterson and his colleague, Dr. Hunter Hoffman, here at the University of Washington. The video game provides distraction that overwhelms the senses and diverts the brain’s attention away from processing pain signals. In a small 2011 study conducted by the military, SnowWorld worked better than morphine for soldiers in the most pain.
Stan Herring tackles youth football safety at international conference on concussion in sport
November 2012 - Dr. Stanley Herring, professor, was among more than 150 medical experts to convene at the Consensus Conference on Concussion in Sport in Zurich earlier this month. Herring, who participated in discussions about concussion in youth sports, was also a leader in getting Washington state's landmark Zackery Lystedt Law passed in 2009. The law establishes ground-breaking, return-to-play protocol following a concussion. Herring also serves on the National Football League's Head, Neck and Spine Committee. Read more...
Michael Burns receives ASHA Student Research Travel Award
October 2012 - Michael Burns, student in the PhD in Rehabilitation Science program, is the recent recipient of a Student Research Travel Award (SRTA) to attend the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Annual Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, November 15–17, 2012. This award is given to the highest-rated ASHA Convention paper - with a student as first author - in each of the 26 topic categories. The purpose of the SRTA is to highlight the research activities of students and encourage careers in science and research. Michael is presenting an hour long seminar entitled, "Preparing Patients with Communication Disorders for Medical Interactions." Drs. Carolyn Baylor and Kathy Yorskton are his co-authors.
Deanna Britton awarded an ANCDS Fall Conference Scholarship
October 2012 - Deanna Britton, speech-language pathologist and student in the PhD in Rehabilitation Science program, was awarded a Fall Conference Scholarship from the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders & Sciences (ANCDS) to attend the annual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, November 14. The award is highly competitive. Students vie for the 10 scholarship spots by writing an essay expressing their interest in neurogenic communication sciences and disorders. As a scholarship winner, Deanna will be assigned a mentor who will guide her through the ANCDS Conference experience to insure that she achieves maximal benefits from ANCDS Conference attendance, including networking with ANCDS members.
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Fall Newsletter now available
October 2012 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Fall 2012 edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact Randi Blaisdell at rehab@uw.edu.
Dr. Krabak featured in KOMO TV special, "Keeping Young Athletes in the Game"
September 2012 - In this KOMO TV special, host Molly Shen shares stories of how the sports medicine team at Children's helps kids stay in the game amidst sports injuries and healthcare conditions. Dr. Brian Krabak, clinical associate professor, discusses how the team approach helped promising young figure skater, MacKenzie Caputo, return to her sport after a hip labral tear injury (an acute injury to the lining of her hip socket). The program also covers areas such as ACL injuries, asthma, nutrition, scoliosis and concussions.
Dr. Apkon featured on Q13 Fox This Morning
September 2012 - In this Q13 Fox This Morning segment, Dr. Sue Apkon, associate professor and Director of Rehabilitation at Seattle Children's, explains how a selective dorsal rhizotomy procedure is helping kids with cerebral palsy walk for the first time.
RSVP for the Wilbert E. Fordyce Lecture: 'Cognitive-Behavioral Treatments for Chronic Pain: Innovations and Future Directions"
September 2012 - This year's Wilbert E. Fordyce lecture features special guest lecturer, Dr. Judith A. Turner, professor, UW Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Please RSVP to Alice Kim evonise9@uw.edu or 206.543.3509
Second year DPT student wins gold and silver medals at London 2012 Paralympic Games
September 2012 - Megan Fisher, second year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student and member of the U.S. Paralympic Cycling team, took home gold and silver medals from the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Overall, Megan competed in four individual events in London. She earned gold in the road time trial and competed in the road race. On the track, she earned silver in the 3k pursuit and placed 9th in the 500m time trial. Congratulations to Megan!
Drs. Peter Esselman and Margaret Hammond honored by the AAPM&R
August 2012 - We are pleased to announce that two UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine faculty members have received top honors from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R). Dr. Peter Esselman, professor and chair, is one of the 2012 recipients of the Distinguished Clinician Award. The award honors individual physiatrists who have achieved distinction on the basis of their scholarly level of teaching and their outstanding performance in patient care activities. Dr. Margaret Hammond, professor, is the 2012 recipient of the Distinguished Member Award. This award honors AAPM&R members who have provided invaluable service to the specialty of PM&R primarily through participation in PM&R-related organizations other than the academy. Drs. Esselman and Hammond will be presented with their awards at the November AAPM&R annual meeting in Atlanta, Ga.
Cerebral Palsy procedure is helping kids walk
August 2012 - Cerebral palsy had made walking difficult for four year old Logan Ellingsworth. His parents knew he might be soon wheelchair bound, when they learned of a procedure at Seattle Children's. Logan's surgery was followed by a 3 week hospital stay and intense physical therapy at home. Dr. Susan Apkon, Director of Rehabilitation at Seattle Children's, led the rehabilitation team and was amazed at his progress just four months after surgery.
US News & World Report Ranks University of Washington #4 in the nation for rehabilitation care
July 2012 - We are pleased to report that the University of Washington has been ranked #4 nationally for rehabilitation care in the most recent US News & World Report rankings. In addition, we remain the top-rated hospital-based rehabilitation program in the United States. Scoring is based on a national survey of physicians who are board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. This reputational ranking reflects well on our clinical programs throughout the UW Medicine system, including the Rehabilitation Medicine programs at University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle Children's, the Veteran's Administration Puget Sound Health Care System, and our Eastside Specialty Clinic. Further information about the US News & World Report rankings can be obtained at their website: http://www.usnews.com
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Summer Newsletter now available
July 2012 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Summer 2012 edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact Randi Blaisdell at rehab@uw.edu.
Top Doctors 2012: Expert spotlight on Dr. Bell
July 2012 - Dr. Kathleen Bell was one of six different specialists interviewed by Seattle magazine for making fascinating breakthroughs in their field. Dr. Bell is a head trauma specialist; she is the medical director of the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program at the UW Medical Center and is the director of the UW Traumatic Brain Injury Model System research program. Read more...
Five faculty members among Seattle magazine's Top Doctors
July 2012 - Drs. Sue Apkon, Kathleen Bell, Stanley Herring, Teresa Massagli and Maria Reyes were all recognized in Seattle magazine's 2012 Top Doctors issue. Seattle magazine compiled their 12th annual peer recommended roster of doctors through the nearly 18,000 surveys they received earlier this year from local physicians. The survey asked physicians to name the provider they would recommend to loved ones, regardless of hospital, clinic or health plan affilitation.
UW Medicine Multiple Sclerosis Center Open House
July 2012 - Join us for the opening of the UW Medicine Multiple Sclerosis Center on the Northwest Hospital campus. Come see our new space, learn about our services, meet the staff and visit our Easy Street environment, where MS patients will receive rehabilitation therapies. Refreshments will be provided.
For directions and parking information, visit nwhospital.org/map
UW Medicine Multiple Sclerosis Center opens at Northwest Hospital
July 2012 - On July 2, UW Medicine opened the doors to a new, dedicated, comprehensive multiple sclerosis (MS) center on the Northwest Hospital campus. The facility is modeled on a multi-disciplinary clinic concept pioneered by UW Medicine. It is staffed by one of the region's strongest concentrations of MS-focused specialists, including physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, neurologists, and psychologists with special education and experience in MS management.
Treating multiple sclerosis: Where are we now, where are we headed?
May 2012 - Multiple sclerosis--or MS--attacks the spinal cord and brain, causing neurological symptoms that can interfere with daily life. But with the right treatment and a comprehensive team approach, patients and their physicians can control MS symptoms better than ever before. Dr. Shana Johnson, and Dr. Annette Wundes (neurology), co-directors of UW Medicine's Multiple Sclerosis Center, join Patient Power's host, Andrew Schorr, to share the latest news in MS treatment and research and explain why they feel this is a hopeful time for patients with MS. Listen to the program.
Dr. Chet Moritz selected for a DARPA Young Faculty Award
May 2012 - Chet Moritz, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Rehabilitation Medicine and Physiology & Biophysics, was recently selected for a DARPA Young Faculty Award. The program aims to identify and engage rising stars in junior faculty positions and provide high-impact funding to these elite junior faculty early in their careers. Dr. Moritz's research aims to develop treatments injuries to the brain and spinal cord using neural engineering technology. The goal of this funding is to improve hand function by recording activity in the brain and using it to trigger stimulation of the spinal cord below an injury. This neuroprosthetic circuit may also help to guide regeneration of the damaged central nervous system. Read more about Dr. Moritz's work.
Dr. Joeseph Czerniecki awarded the Paul B. Magnuson Award
May 2012 - Joseph Czerniecki, M.D., Professor and Associate Director of the Seattle-based VA Research Center of Excellence in Limb Loss Prevention and Prosthetic Engineering, is the recent recipient of the Veterans Administration’s (VA) 2011 Paul B. Magnuson Award for Outstanding Achievement in Rehabilitation Research and Development (RR&D). The award is presented annually to a VA RR&D investigator who exemplifies the entrepreneurship, humanitarianism, and dedication to veterans displayed by Dr. Magnuson during his career. It is the highest honor for VA rehabilitation investigators. Read more...
UW grad works to become whole 6 years after bullet shattered life
April 2012 - Yonas Seifu discusses his recovery after he was shot in the back of the head by a bullet fired randomly through a window 6 years ago. Dr. Kathleen Bell, professor and medical director of the brain-injury rehabilitation program, has treated Seifu since he was released from his 2-month stay at Harborview Medical Center in 2006. Read more...
Cheryl Kerfeld uses Tegrity Lecture Capture for the first completely online course for DPT program
April 2012 - Cheryl Kerfeld, PT, PhD, lecturer, offered the first completely online course for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program using Tegrity Lecture Capture. Tegrity provided Dr. Kerfeld with a way to provide dynamic course content for students to review online. Read more...
UW Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Spring Newsletter now available
April 2012 - The Department is pleased to bring you the Spring 2012 edition of our quarterly newsletter. If you have questions or would like to contribute to a future edition, please contact Randi Blaisdell at rehab@uw.edu.
MS team care will unify at Northwest Hospital
April 2012 - UW Medicine will open a dedicated multiple sclerosis center in July and staff it with one of the region's strongest concentrations of MS-focused specialists. The facilty, on Northwest Hospital & Medical Center's campus, will assemble physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists, neurologists, therapists (occupational, physical and speech), counselors and a psychologist - all seasoned in treating the constellations of physical and cognitive problems that MS patients encounter. Read more...
He was crushed by a jet -- and lived
March 2012 - Boeing employee Josh Divers and his medical team, including Janna Friedly, MD, discuss his injuries and rehabilitation needs at a press conference held at Harborview Medical Center. Both Divers’s legs were amputated after he was crushed by a 787 Dreamliner under tow in February. Read the complete story.
Concussion in sports
March 2012 - Dr. Stan Herring, clinical professor and co-medical director of the Seattle Sports Concussion program, presented “Concussion in Sports” for KCTS9’s "Science Café" series. In the 30 minute program, Dr. Herring explores the causes, symptoms, effects, and recovery from this common sports injury. Science Café is a monthly educational event that brings scientists face-to-face with members of the Greater Seattle Community. Watch "Concussion in Sports."
Department of Rehabilitation Medicine ranks No. 1 in National Institutes of Health funding
March 2012 - The University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine received over $2.6 million in research funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2011, making it the top-ranked Physical Medicine department in NIH funding in the country. Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research compiled the rank list. Learn more about our research.
Register for the Justus F. Lehmann Symposium
March 2012 - The University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine is pleased to open registration for the 2012 Justus F. Lehmann Symposium. This year's symposium, which takes place on May 18 at the Center for Urban Horticulture, focuses on "New Technologies in Rehabilitation." We are fortunate to have an outstanding group of speakers who will share their work and knowledge on a number of topics in the area, including: the future of technology in rehabilitation, technological advances in spinal cord injury, neural technology, prosthetic engineering, augmented reality technology, and mobile technologies. This year’s keynote speaker is Michael L. Boninger, M.D., professor and chair of the PM&R Department at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Boninger is a leading expert in the areas of SCI and assistive technology; he has authored over 20 book chapters and published more than 174 papers on the topics. He also holds 5 U.S. patents.
Virtual penguins a prescription for pain?
February 2012 - In this segment of NPR's All Things Considered, a burned soldier describes how the virtual reality therapy program, SnowWorld, developed by Dr. Dave Patterson and Hunter Hoffman, dramatically reduced the pain of his physical therapy procedures. Listen to the story.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society honors Dr. George Kraft with Lifetime Achievement Award
November 2011 - The Department is pleased to announce that George Kraft, MD, MS, professor, has received the 2011 Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The award, presented to Dr. Kraft at the MS society’s national conference in Dallas on November 3rd, recognizes 35 years of outstanding service to MS care. Dr. Kraft is a well-known expert in MS clinical care, education and research. On the UW faculty since 1969, he has served as director of the Western MS Clinical Center since 1979. He is also the principal investigator of the Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (MSRRTC) that was initially funded in 1998. He is the Alvord professor of Multiple Sclerosis Research; the professorship is named for the late Buster Alvord, former head of neuropathology at the UW’s Department of Pathology and a recipient of the MS Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. Read more...
SCI Transitions Program featured in UW Medicine Magazine's annual Report to Donors
November 2011 - UW Medicine’s Transitions Health Maintenance and Wellness Program (“Transitions”) is featured in UW Medicine Magazine’s annual Report to Donors. Transitions is a health promotion program designed to address the needs of individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) as they transition from inpatient rehabilitation into the first two years of life after SCI. The program is made possible by a competitive grant from the Craig H. Neislen Foundation, and generous donations from Mr. Kenny Salvini, his family and friends. These donations allow the program to be offered at no charge to patients. Read more about the innovative rehabilitation program, Transitions, in a “Valuable Life.”
Janet Powell, PhD, OTR/L appointed as Head of the Occupational Therapy Division
November 2011 - The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine is pleased to announce that Janet Powell, PhD, OTR/L, associate professor, has accepted the position as Head of the Occupational Therapy (OT) Division. Dr. Powell joined the UW OT faculty in 2001 after 20 years of clinical practice in pediatrics and adult physical disabilities. Dr. Powell is honored to take on the leadership of the UW OT Division and is looking forward to working with faculty and community clinicians to further the Division’s excellence in education, research, and service.
Daniel Abrahamson, CPO, helps create educational video focused on prosthetics for middle school children
October 2011 - Daniel Abrahamson, CPO, lecturer and certified prosthetist/orthotist, recently filmed a video for Symbio Studios and educational publishing company, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH). It is an 8 minute video designed to supplement a middle school lesson on engineering. The video focuses on prosthetics and was filmed here at the UW. Mr. Abrahamson worked with the producer, and the host, Michael Dispezio, to come up with the script and series of activities. View the video (please allow a few minutes to download).
Dr. Stan Herring helps launch online course on sports concussions
October 2011 - Dr. Stan Herring, clinical professor, and Dr. Richard Ellenbogen, professor and chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery, have helped launch a new online course on sports concussions for healthcare professionals. The course, “Heads Up to Clinicians: Addressing Concussion in Sports among Kids and Teens,” is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Football League. Drs. Herring and Ellenbogen co-direct the Seattle Sports Concussion Program, a partnership between UW Medicine and Seattle Children's. Read more...
UW Medicine Multiple Sclerosis Program move to Northwest Hospital campus: Questions and answers for patients and families
September 2011 - UW Medicine is building a new state of the art Multiple Sclerosis (MS) center to enhance service offerings and better serve the needs of our MS patients. The new center will combine the existing UW Medicine practices of the MS Neurology and MS Rehabilitation Medicine faculty and clinicians into a single practice where our patients will benefit from the close collaboration of some of the world’s top MS care providers. This will allow a "one stop" clinic where each patient will have the benefit of an individualized care program that will address the complete spectrum of MS treatment resources. Our new UW Medicine clinic will be located on the Northwest Hospital and Medical Center (NWH) campus, in the McMurray building in the early summer of 2012. Information regarding the new location, your upcoming clinic and treatment appointments, and who to contact if you have additional questions is located in this helpful Q&A section.
In the News
The Department of Rehabiltiation Medicine has launched a new Research Strategic Plan (PDF will open in a new window).
