Learning to walk again with robotics-assisted support

Professor Stefan Hesse, one of the pioneers of gait rehabilitation, coined the phrase: "If you want to learn to walk again, you have to walk!" – With the new device, this special exercise can now be carried out with significantly greater intensity and frequency, explains Schorl, adding: "This therapy can prevent one in seven patients from having to use a wheelchair. This has been scientifically proven."

Together with botulinum toxin therapy (see info box), the rehabilitation clinic now has a unique offering beyond the region. "With this combination, we can guarantee the best possible treatment for severely affected patients in so-called phase C with spastic hemiplegia," emphasises head physician Schorl. Around 800 to 1000 steps per day are required so that the brain can re-programme the sequence of movements when walking, so to speak, explains the specialist.

Physiotherapist Johannes Schuschkewitz also confirms that the new therapy device is a significant relief for internal processes. "Previously, two or three therapists were needed for particularly severely affected patients to manage just a few steps. With the "lyra", 2000 to 3000 steps can be completed in the same time in future. This is a real game changer when it comes to relearning to walk," says the 36-year-old. He adds: "The ground-level entrance means that a wheelchair can be driven straight in. The individually adjustable weight relief helps with walking. The movements are guided by foot pedals to train the natural gait pattern."

For further information:
www.thera-trainer.com | www.wz-kliniken.de

Info box – botulinum toxin therapy:
If the muscles cramp involuntarily, as is often the case after a stroke, the neurotoxin botulinum toxin can be administered. It is injected into the affected muscles to release the cramps.