The mission of the NCMRR is to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities through research (NCMRR website available at http://www.nichd.nih.gov/about/ncmrr/ncmrr.htm). The NCMRR provides support for scientists to conduct research on impairments and functional changes associated with chronic physical conditions as well as rehabilitative strategies to reduce disability, improve health, and increase participation.  

Relevant conditions include stroke, brain or spinal cord injury, orthopedic injuries, developmental and degenerative disorders, and other chronic conditions. Investigations supported by NCMRR attempt to promote improvement at many levels:  from reducing pathophysiology and physical impairment, to enhancing functional adaptation, to reducing disability and societal barriers.  

This requires an integration of biological, engineering, and sociobehavioral approaches to understand the basis of the chronic condition, secondary implications, and the interaction of the individual with his/her environment. A multidisciplinary approach to these goals is fundamental to medical rehabilitation practice.  

In 1999, the NCMRR solicited applications for four regional research networks to promote resources, information, and networking in order to expand the capabilities and numbers of investigators who pursue research in medical rehabilitation.  

In 2004, applications were solicited with more of a focus on providing national access to specific expertise and research resources.  The six awarded sites are described elsewhere on this web site. Scientific opportunities have emerged in many areas relevant to medical rehabilitation with the potential for:  (1) improving our understanding of pathological processes and secondary complications; (2) promoting plasticity, recovery, and adaptation; (3) developing assistive technologies and engineering solutions; (4) understanding the role of family, community, and other environmental factors; and (5) providing long-term treatments to reduce disability and promote health and well-being.

The centralized research infrastructure sites described here should  not only increase access to resources and expertise, but are also intended to promote collaborations among rehabilitation researchers, clinicians, and investigators from allied fields.