Frequently Asked Questions About HealthSouth's AutoAmbulator
What kind of therapy does the AutoAmbulator perform?
The AutoAmbulator uses the concept of Body-Weight Supported Treadmill Training, or BWSTT. BWSTT is a form of physical therapy designed to help people who have a variety of neurological conditions, such as, stroke, spinal cord injury, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease.
How does BWSTT therapy work?
BWSTT uses a suspension system to provide upright posture and create a safe environment during ambulation (walking). Using the suspension system over a treadmill while gradually increasing speed and decreasing the amount of body weight support will help the patient safely practice walking.
Will the AutoAmbulator help me walk?
Therapy with the AutoAmbulator is one part of a comprehensive program designed to help patients regain as much function as possible. Research indicates that BWSTT therapy, when used as a part of a physical therapy program, helps patients improve ambulation by retraining the brain and spinal cord walking mechanism. The AutoAmbulator is an exciting technological advance in physical therapy, but it is not a cure for walking impairments.
How does the AutoAmbulator work?
The patient is fitted with a special harness and suspended above a treadmill by an overhead hoist. Robotic arms are then strapped to the patient's legs at the thigh and ankle, which move the legs in a natural walking pattern. A computer system operated by the therapist controls the device through a touch screen panel or a remote control.
What makes the AutoAmbulator unique for this type of therapy?
BWSTT therapy is labor intensive, often requiring more than two or three therapists to support the patient and manually move his or her legs. Because of this, rehabilitation centers find it difficult to perform BWSTT often and only do so for a limited number of patients. The AutoAmbulator, using sophisticated robotics, automates this therapy, allowing patients to experience a smooth, natural human gait for as long as the therapy is well tolerated and practical.
Is it safe?
The AutoAmbulator is the result of years of research and development and was designed to perform BWSTT therapy in a totally safe environment. Numerous features are incorporated into the device to provide the patient and the therapist a safe, controlled experience. HealthSouth received permission from the FDA to use the AutoAmbulator in March 2002.
Are there other benefits to using the AutoAmbulator?
Increased muscle strength, improved physical endurance and improved circulation are all possible benefits of therapy with the AutoAmbulator.
How much does therapy on the AutoAmbulator cost?
The cost for therapy varies according to insurance coverage, geographic location and the frequency and duration of therapy. A representative at a local HealthSouth hospital can help answer these questions on an individual basis.
Where do people receive therapy with the AutoAmbulator?
HealthSouth has AutoAmbulators at a number of locations around the United States and is installing new units every month. Click on the locations section of this website for an updated list of facilities.
How can I find out if therapy with the AutoAmbulator would be beneficial for me?
There are two ways. You can click on the contact section of this website and fill out the requested
information, and someone will contact you within a few days. Or you may contact the listed individuals at any of the
facilities in the locations section of this website.
If it is determined
that you might be appropriate for therapy, an evaluation will be scheduled with a physician at a location convenient
to you.