What is Suspension Gait Rehabilitation?
Suspension gait rehabilitation is an advanced technological treatment method that allows patients to receive safe gait training on a robotic platform with a treadmill, by offloading an adjustable portion of their body weight using a safety harness and a ceiling-supported carrying system. It is effectively used, especially in individuals who want to regain their walking ability after stroke, spinal cord injury, and neurological diseases.
How does it work?
The device suspends the patient with an adjustable harness and a ceiling hoist; 10-80% of the body weight can be lightened. This allows the patient to take repetitive, symmetrical, and safe steps with the help of a physiotherapist or via robotic foot pedals.
Who is it suitable for?
It is recommended for patients who need gait training due to upper motor neuron lesions such as hemiparesis after stroke, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.
How are sessions planned?
A session typically lasts 20-40 minutes; 2-5 sessions per week can be planned. Body weight support is gradually reduced as the session progresses, allowing for muscle strength and balance development.
What are its benefits?
Suspension gait triggers neuroplasticity, increases walking speed and distance, reduces fear of falling, and improves cardiovascular endurance and lower extremity muscle strength. Additionally, early mobilization reduces the risk of pressure sores and joint stiffness.
Are there risks and limitations?
Improper harness selection can lead to skin irritation; it should not be used in patients with severe osteoporosis, unstable fractures, or active deep vein thrombosis.
What is the scientific evidence?
Randomized controlled trials show significant improvement in walking speed and independence scores compared to traditional gait training; it accelerates neurological recovery, especially when applied in the acute stroke phase.
Combination with Other Rehabilitation Methods
Treatment synergy increases when used in conjunction with robotic arm-leg ergometers, balance platforms, functional electrical stimulation, and virtual reality systems.
What factors increase success?
Starting early, an intensive and repetitive session program, supporting with home exercises, and multidisciplinary team (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, neurologist) support optimize results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Suspension Gait Rehabilitation
1- How long does suspension gait therapy last?
A typical program is between 6-12 weeks; it can be extended depending on the patient’s needs and goals.
2- Will I feel pain during the session?
Pain is usually minimal. If the harness pressure causes discomfort, the physiotherapist will adjust the settings.
3- Is recovery guaranteed?
Every patient is different, and responses are individual. The device helps accelerate recovery by supporting **neuroplasticity**, but full recovery depends on the person’s medical condition and other factors.
4- Can I come to sessions in a wheelchair?
Yes. If special arrangements like a ramp or elevator are needed for access to the center, it’s important to inform them in advance.
5- How much weight can be supported?
Most systems can safely carry patients up to 150 kg.
6- Can people with pacemakers use it?
Generally, yes, but it is recommended to get approval from a cardiology specialist as a precaution.
7- Which muscle groups are strengthened?
The front and back thigh, hip, and core/trunk muscles are intensely worked. Additionally, cardiovascular endurance increases.
8- Can it be applied to pediatric patients?
Yes. It can be used for children over 4 years old, including those with cerebral palsy, with special children’s harnesses.
9- Does SGK (Social Security Institution) cover it?
No, suspension gait rehabilitation is not currently covered by SGK as it is a treatment offered in private health centers. You can contact the center directly for information on private insurance or hospital packages.
10- Do I need special clothes before the session?
No. Flexible sportswear and non-slip sports shoes are sufficient.
References
- World Stroke Organization
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- Stanford Health Care
- American Physical Therapy Association
- National Spinal Cord Injury Association
- Cochrane Library
- Nature Reviews Neurology
- Medscape
- UpToDate
- NHS
- European Stroke Organisation
- Rehabilitation Measures Database