69
Views
2
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Articles

Body weight support systems: considerations for clinicians

Pages 143-152 | Published online: 19 Jul 2013
 

Abstract

The Body Weight Support (BWS) system used in conjunction with a treadmill has become increasingly popular in the clinical arena for the treatment of a variety of patient populations. Currently, commercially available BWS systems are designed with different types of suspension mechanisms and a variety of additional features. The purposes of this article are to: (i) provide an overview of the three main types of BWS suspension systems; (ii) review the uses, advantages, and disadvantages of each type; and (iii) highlight and discuss the many additional features that are available. Rehabilitation research conducted with neurological and non-neurological patient populations using a BWS system as a therapeutic modality is highlighted to assist the clinician to select the most suitable BWS system and features for a particular clinical purpose or patient group. Additionally, research findings for the biomechanical effects of varied BWS suspension devices on gait are discussed.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.