Ambulation in a Wheelchair-Bound Stroke Survivor Using a Walker with Body Weight Support: A Case Report

Abstract

Treadmill systems with body weight support (BWS) have been demonstrated to increase overground walking speed, endurance, and balance. However, their use is limited to physical therapy gyms. Training cannot be carried over to home without significant expense. We present the case of a 43-year-old white female with no past medical history who suffered significant neurological impairment as a result of a basilar artery aneurysm. The patient was issued a walker system with BWS that allowed her to function significantly better than before she received the walker system. Implications of using the walker system with BWS in the inpatient, outpatient, and home settings are discussed.

Keywords:

• body weight
• cerebrovascular diseases
• cerebrovascular accident
• gait
• self-help devices
• walkers