Aches and pains don’t show themselves in one way. They have many different ways of presenting themselves. That’s why a physical therapist’s equipment of solutions need to be equally diverse because when it comes to physical therapy, one size never fits all.
From bionic solutions to apps to machine training, this physical therapy equipment is the latest in solutions to help physical therapists meet their clients where they are.
1. Apps for Patients
What better way to reach patients than through their favorite handheld devices? In today’s world, there are many options for physical therapists to improve their client care with app integration. SWORD is one such option, offering PT patients the ability to complete therapy exercises at home. With small, lightweight motion trackers, SWORD pairs digital therapists with real physical therapists to provide best practice treatment for musculoskeletal disorders. Orca Health also offers a trifecta of solutions for the shoulder, knee, and spine, along with 1K+ physical therapy and treatment videos. The best part: Both apps provide significant data tracking so physical therapists can keep track of patient progress at home.
2. App for Therapists
Apps aren’t only helping patients improve. They’re also assisting physical therapists. PT Pal Pro offers therapists an opportunity to seamlessly share exercise lists with their patients, while also ensuring that the patient has the flexibility, strength, and stability for the prescribed movements. RehabTherX also offers an app for at-home rehabilitation, allowing therapists to choose from over 300+ illustrated exercises on an iPad and keep up with patient progress. And the list goes on: Goniometer Pro measures joint range-of-motion, iOrtho+ is an extensive database of tests and exercises to test staff knowledge, and BlueJay Engage is a text messaging platform allowing PTs and clients to keep in touch, share exercise recommendations, and keep track of growth.
3. Bionic solutions
As our understanding of technology grows, so does our knowledge of how tech can help solve the limitations of human bodies. Ekso Bionics, a developer of exoskeleton solutions, helps to amplify a patient’s current endurance, strength, and mobility to rehabilitate more than physical therapy alone can do. Ideal for stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation, Ekso Bionics also provides solutions for those who work in manufacturing, assembly, and construction to prevent injury, which is critical for
4. Machine Training
Apps and robotics aren’t the only things getting smarter. Machine training is also tackling some of the most critical issues in physical therapy by building more comprehensive, data-driven solutions. The Locomat is a robotic treadmill that helps patients return to a proper gait by supporting a patient’s body weight as they practice moving their legs. The AlterG, an anti-gravity treadmill, also relieves body weight for low-impact, pain-free movement, and helps shorten orthopedic recovery times, neurological condition and chronic disease management, and build strength. The AllCore360° machine also improves mobility, balance, and strength, but its solution is based on core body training. By rotating the body in a full circle, the machine uses gravity to activate 50+ muscles and increase endurance for clients of all ability and athletic levels.
5. Virtual reality
Gaming is easily one of the most popular forms of entertainment today. Why not use it as physical therapy equipment? Neuro Rehab Virtual Reality helps patients recover after experiencing a traumatic brain injury through therapy games targeting the neuroplasticity of the brain. Verapy is a physical and occupational tool that also utilizes VR exercise games by creating a fun and enhanced patient experience to increase retention and compliance. With unlimited users, hygienic hardware, and full-body exercises, Verapy is well-suited for clinical settings.
Physical therapy is, at its core, a hands-on experience. However, as technology continues to provide an essential role in the rehabilitation, technological advances in the physical therapy world will continue to improve patient experience and clinical outcomes.
