History of the MSRRTC

The Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (MSRRTC) was established in 1998 when the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine received funding from the Department of Education, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR).

In 2008, the department successfully competed for renewal of this funding. The UW MSRRTC has brought together experts in MS rehabilitation from the fields of rehabilitation medicine, neurology, psychology, rehabilitation counseling, speech pathology, and exercise physiology, along with experts in statistics, and epidemiology.

During previous funding cycles, the UW MSRRTC established an excellent track record of accomplishment. In addition, undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and post-doctoral students received training in rehabilitation research and evidence-based rehabilitation interventions for people with MS.

University of Washington (UW) Multiple Sclerosis Center

The University of Washington (UW) Multiple Sclerosis Center first opened its doors in September 1977, as one of the first comprehensive MS Centers in the country. Now known as the Western Multiple Sclerosis Center, directed by Dr. George H. Kraft, the center has grown into one of the most highly respected MS centers, offering a wide range of rehabilitation services for people with MS.

The University of Washington Department of Rehabilitation Medicine

In 1957, Justus F. Lehmann, MD, was recruited as the first Chairman of the University of Washington’s newly established Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. At the time, the Pacific Northwest had virtually no rehabilitation care for those with physical disabilities.

Dr. Lehmann developed research, training and clinical care programs in medical rehabilitation. He established a residency training program in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, as well as divisions of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Prosthetics & Orthotics.

From left to right: Peter Esselman, MD; Walter C. Stolov, MD, Lawrence R. Robinson, MD.

Dr. Walter C. Stolov followed Dr. Lehmann and served as Chairman from 1987 to 1999. Dr. Lawrence R. Robinson was Chairman from 2000 to 2006. Dr. Peter Esselman is the current department Chairman.