Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern New Mexico

08/03/2026

Hot temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, which occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, disrupting the body’s natural balance of fluids and electrolytes. While dehydration can be caused by lack of fluid intake or excessive sweating, it also can be triggered by excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or fever. It can affect anyone, but older adults and people with certain medical conditions may be at greater risk.

Mild dehydration often includes symptoms such as dry mouth, increased thirst, headache, infrequent urination, and dark-colored urine. Typically, mild dehydration can be managed by drinking water or beverages with electrolytes. Severe dehydration requires immediate medical attention and may include symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, sunken eyes, rapid heart rate, and lack of sweating or urination.

To help stay hydrated, drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Eat water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, and limit your alcohol consumption, which can contribute to dehydration. As a good rule of thumb, keep a bottle of water nearby to sip from throughout the day.

07/27/2026

Returning to meaningful activities is an important part of recovery after a spinal cord injury.
Whether it's spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, participating in adaptive sports, volunteering, or returning to work, staying engaged in activities that provide purpose can support overall well-being and quality of life.
Occupational therapy can help support this transition by modifying tasks, recommending adaptive equipment, and developing individualized strategies to promote independence. Therapists work with each patient on their specific goals to adapt activities and environments so they can participate more fully in daily life. Therapists also can teach energy conservation techniques to help individuals prioritize activities and manage fatigue.

07/22/2026

Celebrating a remarkable career! 🎉 We recently honored Dr. Ellen’s retirement, grateful for his many years of dedicated service to our hospital and community. Share your memories and photos with us to commemorate his legacy. Let’s show our appreciation!

07/20/2026

Skin health is an important part of living with a spinal cord injury that requires daily attention.
Changes in sensation can make it difficult to notice pressure, irritation, or injury. Reduced mobility also can lead to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the body, which decreases blood flow and increases the risk of skin breakdown. Without proper prevention, pressure injuries can develop and lead to serious complications.
To help protect your skin:
• Keep your skin dry clean and dry
• Perform daily skin checks
• Change positions regularly as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Protect any bony areas with pillows or cushions
• Maintain good nutrition and hydration
• Report any redness or skin changes to your healthcare provider

07/15/2026

Join us in celebrating Mauricio Guerrero RN on earning his CRRN certification! 🎉 This milestone highlights his dedication, expertise, and commitment to delivering exceptional rehabilitation care. Proud to have such a passionate professional on our team. What’s your proudest achievement in healthcare? Share with us!

07/13/2026

Every spinal cord injury is unique.
The effects of a spinal cord injury depend on the level and severity of the injury. The level of the injury along the spinal cord dictates which body parts may be affected. Injuries higher up on the cervical spine typically result in more extensive paralysis, while lower injuries tend to affect the trunk and legs.
Some individuals may experience changes in movement, sensation or both. Others may retain varying degrees of function below the level of injury. Spinal cord injuries are broadly categorized as complete or incomplete. Complete injuries include a total loss of motor and sensory functions below the injury site. Incomplete injuries involve some remaining function below the level of the injury.

Because no two spinal cord injuries are exactly alike, rehabilitation plans are tailored to each person's unique needs, goals, and abilities to help maximize independence and quality of life.

07/07/2026

Join our team at Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern New Mexico! We’re hiring an Admissions Representative to connect patients with life-changing care in Las Cruces, NM. Be part of a dedicated community committed to compassion, purpose, and exceptional outcomes. We offer state-of-the-art therapy, personalized plans, and a collaborative environment where your work truly matters. Ready to make a difference in patients' lives? Apply today and be part of a team that cares!

Ernest Health Careers is hiring a Admissions Representative in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Review all of the job details and apply today!

07/06/2026

A spinal cord injury can affect the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is the part of the body that controls involuntary functions like blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and digestion. Because communication between the brain and parts of the body can be disrupted below the injury, it can create health challenges and complications.
Some common autonomic nervous system (ANS) complications include cardiovascular instability, such as significant drops in blood pressure or an abnormally slow heart rate. Another serious complication is autonomic dysreflexia, a sudden and potentially dangerous spike in blood pressure. Temperature dysregulation also may occur due to impaired sweating and reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Bowel or bladder dysfunction also can result from disrupted autonomic control.
Rehabilitation helps individuals learn how to recognize changes in their bodies, prevent complications, and safely manage daily activities. Education, therapy, and support are key components of maximizing independence and quality of life.

07/04/2026

Happy Semiquincentennial, USA! Two Hundred Fifty looks good on you!

06/29/2026

By 2030, it’s projected that more than 70 million Americans will be 65 years or older, and most will still have a driver’s license.

Driving is important for maintaining independence and mobility as individuals age. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, aging-related changes, including vision, physical ability, cognition, and the effects of certain medications or chronic conditions, can affect driving safety and increase crash risk.
At the same time, however, research shows that older adults are more likely than younger drivers to wear seat belts, avoid risky behaviors, and drive more cautiously.
To help support safe driving, older adults are encouraged to:
• Always wear a seat belt
• Have vision checked regularly
• Review medications with a doctor or pharmacist
• Plan routes in advance
• Drive during safer conditions (daylight and good weather when possible)
• Minimize distractions
• Maintain a safe following distance