Hart Walker UK
Who might use a Gait Trainer?
Almost anyone with mobility difficulties who can initiate a stepping motion or who has the potentional to initiate a stepping motion might benefit from the use of a gait trainer.
These conditions include:
Cerebral palsy.
Spina bifida.
Rett syndrome.
Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS)
SWAN - Syndrome Without A Name.
Other diagnosed and non-diagnosed conditions which cause neurological or musculoskeletal disorders.
Level of Support:
Determine how much support your child needs to stand and walk.Some may need minimal support, while others require significant assistance.
Motivation:
Is your child motivated to walk and explore?A gait trainer can be a tool to promote independence and participation.
Stepping Pattern:
Does your child have a natural stepping pattern, or are there issues with increased tone or scissoring of the legs?
Head Control:
Does your child have good head control?This is important for stability and safety.
Growth:
How quickly is your child growing?Choose a model that can accommodate their growth and ensure long-term use.
Anterior Gait Trainers:
These are pushed in front of the child's body and are often easier to transfer into.
Posterior Gait Trainers:
These are pulled behind the child's body and encourage more upright posture.
Hands-Free Walkers:
These can promote arm swing and trunk rotation, as well as increased participation and inclusion.
Rollators:
These are similar to walkers but offer more support and can be used for longer distances.
Adjustability:
Choose a gait trainer that is highly adjustable to accommodate different ages and sizes.
Support:
Look for features like arm supports, pelvic support, and chest harnesses to help maintain proper posture and alignment.
Wheeled Base:
Most gait trainers have wheels for easy maneuverability and control over speed and direction.
Safety:
Consider safety features like extra padding, brakes, pelvic support, seat, and harness.
Durability:
Ensure the gait trainer is made from durable materials and is suitable for the intended environment (indoor or outdoor).
Ease of Use:
Choose a gait trainer that is easy to use and maneuver, both for the child and caregivers.
Indoor vs. Outdoor:
Will the gait trainer be used primarily indoors or outdoors?Choose a model that is suitable for the intended environment.
Surface:
Consider the type of surfaces where the gait trainer will be used (e.g., carpet, smooth floors, outdoor terrain).
Physical Therapists:They can assess your child's needs and recommend the most appropriate type of gait trainer.
Assistive Technology Professionals:They can provide expertise in selecting and fitting gait trainers.
What are the benefits of using a Gait Trainer?
Good for the digestive system.
Improved posture.
Improved circulation.
Better musculo-skeletal growth and bone mineral density.
Hip development. It is thought that standing can help develop the shape of the hip joint (which is a ball and socket joint) to be smooth and round.
Skin integrity.
Self esteem.
Social interaction - able to carry out activities at home/and or at school, with peers/siblings, at standing height and with hands free.
Independence.
Speech and respiratory system.
plantarflexion or dorsiflexion, we may be able to help with some of our clever little solutions.