Here at Let’s Go Physio, we love treadmill training (gait training) especially if a client has calf muscle tightness.
We hope this blog helps to explain why it can form an essential part of rehabilitation.
What happens when wearing an AFO?
Using an ankle foot orthosis (AFO) can dramatically improve the way a person walks.
The device will alter the timing and direction of the forces acting through the foot and ankle and this will also have an impact on the joints above, particularly the knee and hip.
Who prescribes splints?
Both the Orthotist and Physiotherapist will carefully consider the prescribing of an AFO.
The choice of materials and stiffness will impact the amount of stability and control required, and this will optimize muscle activity.
Why Treadmill Training?
The treadmill is an invaluable tool for clinicians when evaluating a person’s gait.
It provides a safe, controlled environment in which the user can gradually build up cadence (speed) whilst getting used to wearing a splint. It allows us to work on motor relearning, instilling a more habitual typical walking pattern that will transfer to over-ground walking not just on the treadmill.
Therapists may help clients step in order to ensure they are achieving their desired walking pattern. It helps to provide a more controlled stretch of the calf muscle without compromise to the arches of the foot with a well-fitting splint.
Over-ground walking can be more difficult than walking on the treadmill for some clients. At Let’s Go Physio we also have the unweighting hoist if clients need more help to step.
Our client
The video clip shows a young man with a foot drop on the left wearing a dynamic carbon fibre AFO and practising gait training on the treadmill.
We are working to stretch a tight calf muscle and for him to learn the correct way to walk.
This allows the clinician to control the walking speed and analyse the client’s gait using OSKAR (Optimal Segmental Kinematics and Alignment Approach to Rehabilitation, Elaine Owen) principles.
How often will you have to complete treadmill training?
Your therapists will work with you to decide how long you must wear your splint and how much gait training is needed to achieve your goals.
How we can help
The physiotherapists at Let’s Go Physio are experienced in measuring and fitting AFOs, Gait Analysis and Treadmill Training.
For more information about Treadmill Training at Let’s Go Physio or to book an
assessment please call us today on 01282 222720 or get in touch here.