Gait Trainers

What are Gait Trainers?

Gait trainers are mobility aids designed to properly support and stabilize individuals who are relearning to walk after an injury, or for those who have difficulty walking due to disabilities such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida or other developmental or cognitive disabilities.

How do Gait Trainers Work?

Gait trainers safely support individuals in an upright position who are unable to put their full weight on their legs or maintain their balance, allowing them to practice walking independently or with the help of a physical therapist. Correct walking moves are simulated and maintained through features such as ankle prompts, pelvic stabilizers, positioning bars, padded supports, seats, and harnesses. By providing correct positioning and assistance with weight-bearing, gait trainers allow individuals to practice walking while being supported from behind (posterior framing) or from the front (anterior framing), depending upon their unique requirements. Scissor bars are another option that may prevent the undesirable “scissoring” motion of legs by positioning legs in their proper place beneath the trunk.

What are the Benefits of Gait Trainers?

In addition to helping users practice safe and correct walking, gait trainers can prevent flexion contractures, strengthen muscle tone, increase muscle memory as well as improve balance and posture. Even if those who use gait trainers do not fully regain the ability to walk independently, they often will build their endurance and strength while preventing long term complications of immobility such as cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis. Use of gait trainers may also foster increased feelings of confidence and independence and may help increase opportunities for social and eye-to-eye interaction with peers, which is particularly important to those with cognitive impairments.