LiteGait

LiteGait is an overhead body-weight support system designed to facilitate gait training over a treadmill or on solid ground.

It comprises a harness that supports the patient's body weight, allowing for partial to full weight-bearing adjustments. This setup enables therapists to control postural alignment, balance, and movement patterns, providing a fall-free environment that encourages active participation in rehabilitation activities

It can be used for clients with many different neurological conditions where the lower limbs are affected. The harness can be adjusted for paediatric use.

Applications in Neurological Physiotherapy

Neurological conditions often result in compromised gait and balance, leading to challenges in mobility and independence. LiteGait addresses these issues by:

• Facilitating Early Mobilisation: By providing support during standing and walking, LiteGait allows patients to begin gait training early in their rehabilitation process, reducing the risk of complications like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness
• Enhancing Motor Learning: The system enables high-intensity, repetitive practice, which is crucial for neuroplasticity and recovery of motor function.
• Supporting Task-Specific Training: Therapists can tailor exercises to simulate real-life activities, such as stair climbing or sit-to-stand transitions, promoting functional independence.
• Providing Real-Time Feedback: LiteGait allows therapists to offer immediate corrections, helping patients adjust their posture and gait patterns effectively.

Benefits for Clients

Clients utilising the LiteGait experience several advantages:

• Safety and Confidence: The harness system mitigates the fear of falling, encouraging patients to engage more actively in rehabilitation exercises, including walking forwards, backwards or side-stepping.
• Progressive Weight-Bearing: Over time the therapist can decrease the tension of the harness to allow the client to gradually take more weight and eventually independently weight bear.

• Motivation and Engagement: Visible improvements in mobility can boost client morale and provide encouragement which in turn improves adherence to the therapy program.
• Improved mental health: Exercise can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, boost self-esteem, and enhance cognitive function. Engaging in exercise releases endorphins and other chemicals that promote feelings of well-being and relaxation. Additionally, maintaining a routine can provide a sense of accomplishment and control, which are beneficial for mental health.

LiteGait offers a versatile and effective approach to gait rehabilitation. Its ability to provide safe, controlled, and individualised therapy makes it invaluable for clients aiming to regain mobility and independence.