Milestones

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) at Christian Medical College, Vellore, has a rich history of innovation and care. Over the years, it has grown from its humble beginnings into a pioneering institution, making significant strides in rehabilitation services, education, and research. This journey has been marked by numerous milestones, reflecting the department’s commitment to improving the lives of those with disabilities through comprehensive and multidisciplinary care. 

1962 – 1974:

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) was officially opened by the Hon'ble President of India, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. A significant milestone in the department's history was the turning of the sod for the Rehabilitation Institute (RI) by Dr. Paul Brand, followed by its inauguration on November 26, 1966. The first patient was admitted to the RI on January 2, 1967, marking the beginning of its journey in providing care. As the institute expanded, the number of beds increased to 27, and home visits commenced, enhancing the scope of rehabilitation services. Dr. Mary Verghese, a key figure in the institute, was awarded the prestigious ‘Padma Shri’ for her contributions. The Celebration of Rehabilitation Institute Day became a hallmark event, and Dr. Mary was further recognized with the Dr. PN Raju Oration Award by the ICMR for her outstanding research in Rehabilitation. 

1975 – 1989:

The Department of Physical Medicine at Christian Medical College, Vellore, has seen significant advancements over the years. The Diploma in Physical Medicine, recognized by Madras University, paved the way for specialized education in this field. Additionally, Degree Courses in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy were introduced to cater to the growing demand for trained professionals. The department also saw the revamping of the Artificial Limb Centre, enhancing its ability to provide prosthetic solutions. A key development was the initiation of the Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programme, which aimed to extend rehabilitation services to rural areas. In collaboration with IIT Madras, a joint project focused on the use of new fibres and composites, further advancing the quality of care. Services such as Neurogenic bladder evaluation, funded by the ASHA grant, and the introduction of Diagnostic Ultrasound services at the Rehabilitation Institute, have greatly enhanced patient care. Additionally, the availability of speech therapy services has contributed to the holistic treatment of patients in need of rehabilitation.

1990 – 1993:

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Christian Medical College has continued to evolve with numerous milestones. The Department held its First Retreat, fostering collaboration and planning for future advancements. The establishment of the Gait Lab at the Rehabilitation Institute marked a significant step in analyzing and improving patient mobility. Pharmacy services were also introduced within the Rehab Institute, providing comprehensive care under one roof. The department initiated weekly visits to the CSI Cerebral Palsy Centre in Sainathapuram, extending specialized care to children in need. Celebrating the Silver Jubilee of the Rehabilitation Institute, the department reflected on its achievements and continued growth. The introduction of the DNB programme in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) added a valuable educational dimension, training future specialists. A project on the Vocational Rehabilitation of Severely Disabled Adults aimed to integrate them into the workforce, enhancing their quality of life. Furthermore, the Department introduced a Course in Prosthetics and Orthotics, providing specialized skills for addressing physical disabilities. These initiatives have strengthened the department’s commitment to comprehensive rehabilitation services.

1994 – 2001:

The Rehabilitation Institute at Christian Medical College has achieved numerous milestones over the years, marking its significant contributions to patient care and medical advancements. The First Rehab Mela was a landmark event, bringing together patients, caregivers, and specialists to Celebrate Rehabilitation services. A second joint project with IIT Madras focused on the Development of Orthotic Knee and Hip Joints, advancing mobility solutions. The institute also launched a Neuromuscular Multidisciplinary Clinic in collaboration with Neurology, providing specialized care for neuromuscular disorders. In recognition of its legacy, the Rehabilitation Institute was renamed the Mary Verghese Institute of Rehabilitation. Further collaborative efforts, such as the Haematology-Ortho-PMR Multidisciplinary Clinic and the collaboration between the Prosthetics & Orthotics (P&O) department and the International Committee of the Red Cross, underscored the institute’s commitment to holistic care. The ‘Rehab Murasu’ was published in 1998. In 1999 and 2000 the department’s academic contributions for the establishment of a Patients’ Library and the Multidisciplinary Pain Clinic enhanced patient support services. The installation of a new computerized Speech Analysis and Therapy System improved speech rehabilitation. The Artificial Limb Centre(ALC) was renamed Prosthetic and Orthotic Services, reflecting its broader mission. The institute also introduced the MD (PM&R) programme, enhancing academic training in rehabilitation medicine. The Multidisciplinary Amputee Clinic, a WHO-funded project on Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) in collaboration with LCECU, and the development of a motorised Artificial Hand, further cemented the department’s pioneering role in rehabilitation care.

2002 – 2005:

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Christian Medical College continues to make remarkable progress in expanding and enhancing its services. The modification of the OPD area and the increase in the number of beds in the Main Hospital have significantly improved patient care and facilities. The department successfully hosted its 10th Rehab Mela, a celebration of rehabilitation services, and also completed the WHO-funded Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) project. In addition, a special Rehab Mela for persons with brain injuries was organized to address the needs of this unique patient group. The department held a National CME on ‘Gait Analysis and Neuromuscular Disorders’, providing valuable insights to professionals in the field. A WHO workshop on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health was also conducted, reflecting the department’s dedication to global rehabilitation standards. The completion of the first floor of the Rehab Institute increased bed strength to 85, allowing for greater capacity to serve patients. Two major facilities were inaugurated: the ‘Margaret and Paul Brand Spinal Injuries Centre’ and the ‘David Marriot Acquired Brain Injury Centre’, both offering specialized care for spinal cord and brain injury patients. The launch of the Stem Cell Lab and the initiation of Phase 1 of the Spinal Cord Regeneration Project further demonstrated the institute’s commitment to cutting-edge research and regenerative medicine in rehabilitation.

2006 – 2011:

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Christian Medical College has achieved several key milestones in its ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive care. The medical unit was divided into two, enhancing the department’s capacity to address the growing demand for services. The launch of multidisciplinary clinics, including those for Brain Injury, Diabetic Foot, stroke, and back school, allowed for specialized, collaborative care. The completion of Phase 1 of the Spinal Cord Regeneration Project marked an important step in advancing spinal injury treatment, followed by the initiation of Phase II, reflecting the department's dedication to innovation. A CME on ‘Comprehensive Rehabilitation in Haemophillia’ provided vital knowledge to medical professionals. The department's efforts were recognized when the Rehabilitation Institute (RI) was awarded the "For the Sake of Honour Award" by the Rotary Club. The WHO Fellowship Training Programme and the designation of the Department of PMR as a WHO Collaborating Centre for the Development of Rehabilitation Technology, Capacity Building, and Disability Prevention underscored the department's international significance. The MD (PM&R) Programme expanded its seats to four, accommodating more students for specialized training. The vocational training project for severely disabled adults celebrated its 30th batch, reinforcing the department’s dedication to empowering disabled individuals. Additionally, the creation of a children’s treatment area in the Rehabilitation Institute highlighted the department’s commitment to pediatric rehabilitation services.

2012 – 2016:

The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Christian Medical College continues to expand its services and achieve significant milestones. A new Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) Education Unit was established, alongside the introduction of a degree course in Prosthetics & Orthotics, enhancing educational opportunities in rehabilitation technology. The department celebrated its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of excellence in patient care and rehabilitation. The 20th Rehab Mela and the 10th Brain Injury Mela were hosted, providing valuable outreach and support to patients and caregivers. Project Helmet was launched to promote road safety and prevent traumatic brain injuries. The department also introduced tetraplegic hand surgery and opened the Upper Extremity Movement Analysis Lab, furthering its specialized care offerings. The Golden Jubilee of the Mary Verghese Rehabilitation Institute was celebrated with the expansion of the institute’s second floor, increasing its capacity. The introduction of Baclofen Pump services provided advanced treatment for patients with severe spasticity. Additionally, a postgraduate course in Physiotherapy (MPT) was launched, reflecting the department’s commitment to higher education in rehabilitation. Physiotherapy services were also extended to the CMC Chittoor campus, ensuring broader access to quality care across the region.