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Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune
(Deemed to be University)
Dr. D. Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy
Sant Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune-411018

The Anti-gravity Treadmill- What is It All About?

The Anti-gravity Treadmill- What is It All About?

Recover from injury or surgery & improve fitness with the Anti-Gravity treadmill. Reduce impact using NASA technology, aiding rehab & aerobic fitness.

Shraddha Mohandas, (BPT – IV year)
June, 15 2023
4748

If you are looking for a way to recover from injury or surgery and want to improve your fitness without the impact of traditional exercise or gravitational force, the Anti-Gravity treadmill can be the solution for it.

The antigravity treadmill is a state-of-the-art technology that is revolutionizing fitness by allowing the patient to run or walk with reduced impact. Patented by NASA technology, the antigravity treadmill provides up to 80% of the body weight support while reducing the strain and stress on the body.

It uses differential air pressure technology to reduce the impact of gravity on the body. This allows the person to exercise with less stress on the joints, muscles, and bones.

Anti-Gravity Treadmill

Picture credit: https://metrifit.com/blog/anti-gravity-treadmills-what-can-they-do/?cn-reloaded=1

How Does It Work?

Antigravity treadmill offers a unique unweighing process, utilizing a differential air pressure chamber that NASA developed. The air pressure comfortably lifts the user and allows him/her to walk or run at a fraction of their body weight.

Specific shorts are worn, generally over the top of shorts or leggings. The patient then steps inside the chamber of the machine, similar to a large bubble and it’s zipped inside. This allows the body to be enclosed and supported by the air pressure. Once the machine has been calibrated to the individual, the body support percentage can be adjusted as desired. From there, the treadmill is operated like a regular treadmill with speed adjustments for walking or running. Both the sides and back of the bubble are clear to allow the physical therapist to observe mobility and mechanics for better treatment.

Benefits of Antigravity Treadmill:

  1. Rehabilitate lower extremity injuries with less pain and impact.
  2. Provide support and confidence to start walking sooner and longer.
  3. Prevent fall during training to increase comfort and confidence during rehab and beyond.
  4. Develop and maintain aerobic fitness while rehabilitating from injury or surgery.
  5. Allow neuromuscular re-education in fall safe environment.
  6. Improve mobility, strength, and safety for those with neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injury and stroke.

Indications:

Seniors and Neurological Patients:

  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Stroke rehabilitation
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Multiple Sclerosis

Orthopaedics and Sports:

  • Total hip or knee replacements
  • Meniscus repair
  • ACL reconstruction
  • Arthritis
  • Stress fractures
  • Ankle sprain

Paediatrics:

  • Helps children get mobile before their legs are strong enough or coordinated enough to support them normally.
  • Builds strength and muscle memory.
  • Used to treat children with spina bifida, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, movement and gait dysfunction, brain injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Contraindications:

  • Unstable fractures
  • Cardiovascular hypotension
  • Deep vein thrombosis

Precautions:

  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Exercise-induced asthma
  • Acute and chronic back pain
  • Ruptured or herniated disc
  • Any condition which increases intra-abdominal pressure

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Antigravity treadmill is a remarkable technology that offers a range of benefits for individuals recovering from injury, surgery, or those looking for improving their fitness levels.

Bibliography:

  1. physioactiveindia.com
  2. Capstone Physical Therapy
  3. Fitzgerald Physical Therapy Associates
  4. Manuals Lib

 

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