Partial
weight bearing gait therapy, also called body weight supported gait therapy, is
a method of supporting the body to facilitate walking. Partial weight bearing
gait therapy has been found to be a particularly effective rehabilitation technique
for individuals who have suffered a stroke, brain injury or spinal cord injury.
At Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, the
gait system for partial weight bearing gait therapy allows the therapist to assist
the patient in regaining the ability to walk by:
reducing weight bearing loads
providing a safe environment free from falls
supporting optimal upright posture
beginning gait training much earlier in the rehab process
beginning gait training at a lower level of ability
allowing correction of improper walking patterns.
Partial weight bearing gait training is one of many rehab techniques used at Sister
Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. The benefits associated with this gait therapy
are:
safe gait training much sooner in the rehab process
proper walking patterns are developed and reinforced
decreased energy expenditure by deconditioned patients
therapeutic benefits for the skeletal muscle system, cardiovascular system,
range of motion, and spasticity.
A patient needs a referral from a physician to receive Partial weight bearing
gait therapy. Once a patient is referred, a qualified physical therapist will
perform an evaluation to determine if the patient is an appropriate candidate
for Partial weight bearing gait therapy. If the patient is a candidate, he or
she will then be assessed on the Partial weight bearing system and monitored closely
for any adverse reactions. A therapist will work with the patient to establish
an appropriate treatment plan.
Referral
Your physician can make a referral by fax at 612-863-5698 or phone at 612-863-1924
Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-863-4200 or toll free 866-880-3550
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Partial
weight bearing gait therapy, also called body weight supported gait therapy, is
a method of supporting the body to facilitate walking. Partial weight bearing
gait therapy has been found to be a particularly effective rehabilitation technique
for individuals who have suffered a stroke, brain injury or spinal cord injury.