Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, is not just a hospital — it’s a place of hope, healing, and transformation. Specializing in spinal cord injury (SCI) and brain injury (BI) rehabilitation, Craig Hospital has earned national recognition for its dedication to helping patients reclaim their lives.
Whether it’s helping someone walk again after a spinal cord injury or relearning basic skills after a traumatic brain injury, Craig Hospital Englewood CO provides care that is life-changing. In this article, we’ll explore what makes this hospital so unique, its services, patient stories, awards, and why people from all over the U.S. choose it for specialized rehab care.
About Craig Hospital Englewood CO
Founded in 1907, Craig Hospital has evolved from a small tuberculosis treatment center into one of the top rehabilitation hospitals in the country. Located in Englewood, a suburb of Denver, Craig Hospital exclusively treats patients with spinal cord and brain injuries. This specialization allows them to offer unmatched expertise and resources.
Unlike general hospitals, Craig Hospital doesn’t handle surgeries or general medical care — it focuses only on neurological rehabilitation, which allows for an in-depth, patient-first approach. This unique model gives patients a stronger chance of recovery with long-term support and guidance.
Specialization in Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Rehab
One of the biggest reasons Craig Hospital stands out is its specialized care for SCI and BI. Many hospitals offer rehabilitation programs, but few focus 100% of their resources on neurological injuries like Craig does.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)?
A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord that leads to loss of function, such as mobility or feeling. SCI can result from accidents, sports injuries, or diseases.
Craig Hospital has programs for:
- Tetraplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
- Paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body)
- Incomplete spinal injuries
- Pediatric spinal cord injuries
What Is a Brain Injury (BI)?
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when a sudden trauma damages the brain. This can cause problems with thinking, memory, movement, emotions, and behavior.
Craig Hospital helps patients with:
- Severe TBI
- Mild and moderate brain injury with complex symptoms
- Stroke-related complications
- Brain injury due to anoxic (lack of oxygen) events
Inpatient and Outpatient Services
Craig Hospital Englewood CO offers both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services.
Inpatient Program
Patients admitted to the hospital receive 24/7 medical support and therapy. The average length of stay is about 60–90 days, depending on the injury.
Inpatient services include:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Respiratory therapy
- Recreational therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Family training and education
- Peer mentorship programs
Outpatient Services
After patients are discharged, they can return to Craig for follow-up outpatient care. This includes:
- Return-to-work or school programs
- Driving evaluations
- Cognitive therapy
- Fitness and wellness programs
Unique Features That Set Craig Hospital Apart
Craig Hospital is not your typical rehab center. It goes above and beyond in many ways.
Patient-Centered Care
Each patient has a care team that includes a doctor, nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, and case manager. The team works together to create a customized plan.
Transitional Living Apartments
Craig offers apartment-style rooms where patients and families can practice independent living before going home.
Peer Mentorship Programs
Patients are matched with others who have experienced similar injuries. These mentors offer emotional support and practical advice.
Recreational Therapy
Patients participate in sports, art, music, and outdoor activities, helping rebuild their confidence and physical strength.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Craig Hospital uses the latest technology like:
- Robotic-assisted walking devices
- Functional electrical stimulation bikes
- Virtual reality rehab tools
National Recognition and Awards
Craig Hospital Englewood CO is consistently ranked as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Rehabilitation by U.S. News & World Report. It’s also:
- Accredited by CARF for SCI and BI rehabilitation
- A Magnet-recognized hospital for nursing excellence
- A Model System Center for SCI and BI by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)
These awards are not just titles — they reflect the hospital’s dedication to excellence in care, patient outcomes, and innovation.
Supporting Families During Recovery
Recovery from a spinal cord or brain injury is not just about the patient — families play a huge role. Craig Hospital provides:
- Family housing during inpatient stays
- Counseling and training for caregivers
- Family peer support programs
Their belief is simple: if families heal together, patients recover faster.
Real Patient Stories
Brandon’s Journey
Brandon, a 23-year-old athlete, was paralyzed after a car accident. After months at Craig Hospital, he was able to walk again with assistive devices and returned to college with new goals.
Emily’s Comeback
Emily suffered a brain injury during a skiing accident. At Craig, she regained her speech, rebuilt her memory skills, and learned how to live independently again.
These stories are just a few of the thousands that show the transformative power of rehabilitation at Craig Hospital Englewood CO.
Why People Travel to Craig Hospital from All Over the U.S.
Craig Hospital only treats around 2,000 patients per year — but these patients come from all 50 states. Why?
- Highly specialized care not available locally
- Comprehensive rehab programs
- Strong long-term outcomes
- Access to support services and housing
The hospital even helps with travel coordination and financial assistance, making the journey less stressful.
Research and Innovation
Craig Hospital is not just focused on treatment — it’s also a hub for clinical research in spinal cord and brain injury recovery.
Ongoing Research Areas
- New therapy methods
- Assistive technology
- Long-term health outcomes
- Mental health after injury
Patients can participate in clinical trials that may benefit future generations.
Community Involvement and Fundraising
Craig Hospital is a nonprofit organization. Much of its success is made possible by donations and community support.
Their Craig Foundation raises funds for:
- Patient assistance programs
- New equipment and facilities
- Education and training
- Research projects
Events like Pedal 4 Possible, a community cycling fundraiser, help bring people together and support the hospital’s mission.
Final Thoughts
Craig Hospital Englewood CO is more than just a medical facility — it’s a place where lives are rebuilt, and hope is restored. With a passionate team, specialized care, advanced technology, and a deeply personal approach, Craig Hospital gives patients the tools they need to regain their independence and reimagine their future.
Whether you or a loved one is facing a spinal cord or brain injury, Craig Hospital is a name that represents compassion, strength, and recovery.
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