Making smart purchases for the physical therapy clinic and choosing among the many types of rehabilitation and fitness equipment demands research to determine which gear is the best fit. For example, it is important to learn about a manufacturer’s reputation for quality and service, and the measures they take to stand behind their equipment. Also consider whether the manufacturer provides support for training and can provide replacement parts into the future. Smaller products for home use should also be thought about carefully, and evaluated for whether they are accessible, affordable, and enjoyable.
Latex Resistance Bands and Tubing
Stretchwell Inc, Warminster, Pa, offers a range of latex resistance bands and tubing. Since its debut in 1994, the company has produced its flagship product, Fitlastic Therapy Bands, using high-quality and green-friendly continuously dipped latex sheets. Stretchwell reports that the bands contain almost no soluble proteins and are color-coded by the “ROY G BIV” progressive system of resistance. The 18-foot, 75-foot, and 150-foot rolls are marked every foot to allow for easier cutting, measuring, and identification.
For more information, contact Stretchwell Inc, (888) 396-2430; www.stretchwell.com
Training Gear
NZ Manufacturing Inc, Tallmadge, Ohio, offers the MediCordz Safety Bungee, which is built to provide rehab and strengthening with the added safety and security of strong and durable high-grade bungee. The patented line of USA-made products provides seven progressive resistance levels from which to choose. MediCordz Safety Bungee can provide resistance in rehab and exercise without the concern for allergies and possible breakage sometimes associated with latex bands. The dedicated Upper Body (shown here) is used in upper body and for stabilization exercises. MediCordz rehab training tools are designed to provide maximum function and comfort while withstanding rigorous use.
For more information, contact NZ Manufacturing Inc, (800) 886-6621; www.nzcordz.com
Traction Table
The EU300 Traction Table, offered by Chino, Calif-based Everyway4All, can be used by physiotherapists to perform traction and decompression therapy as a way to treat patients experiencing pain and limited function due to lower back and neck conditions. The EU300 Traction Table standard package is equipped with an extension cord, 2 x Bolsters, and (L) 60° + (R) 60° swivel arm of various angle pulls. The optional CT850 Cervical Traction Unit and optional Thoracic & Lumbar Traction Belts are designed to help perform lumbar and cervical traction.
For more information, contact Everyway4All, (909) 606-8889; www.everyway4all.com
Compact Seated Elliptical
Cubii manufactures a compact seated elliptical featuring a patented design that delivers low-impact, non-weight bearing pedal movement. The low-profile and compact unit is engineered to provide a full range of motion to work all lower extremities from ankles to glutes, with eight levels of resistance that can adjust as users progress. Additional features include non-skid, one-size-fits-all pedals that eliminate awkward pedal straps, a rim bordering on the pedal for added safety, and a large handle for easy transportation.
For more information, contact Cubii, (844) 282-4401; https://mycubii.com/pages/rehabilitation
Balance Board
Calgary, Alberta, Canada-based Fitter International Inc offers the Fitterfirst Extreme Balance Board Pro, built to train balance and coordination, increase proprioceptive awareness, and improve ankle and knee strength and core power. Features include front-to-back and side-to-side movement, 360-degree rotation for an added balance challenge, support pegs to increase stabilization, and durable birch construction with a nonslip top. The Extreme Balance Board Pro can be useful as a training tool for athletes and for anyone looking for a greater challenge.
For more information, contact Fitter International Inc, (800) fitter-1 (348-8371); www.fitter1.com
Anti-Gravity Treadmill
The AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill from Fremont, Calif-headquartered AlterG Inc uses NASA’s differential air pressure technology to provide gentle and precise unweighting, without affecting natural gait mechanics. With AlterG, therapists are able to help their patients reclaim their mobility, whether they are recovering from injury, rehabbing from surgery, or working through a chronically debilitating condition, such as Parkinson’s disease or osteoarthritis. The Anti-Gravity Treadmill can take patients all the way down to 20% of their full body weight, and is adjustable in 1% increments. This helps therapists pinpoint the exact level of support needed for each patient and progress their rehab accordingly, minimizing backsliding while maximizing results.
For more information, contact AlterG Inc, (510) 270-5900; www.alterg.com
Soft Tissue Therapy Tool
The Massage Star Soft Tissue Therapy tool, available from Magister Corporation, Chattanooga, Tenn, can be used for trigger point therapy, muscle stripping, and cross-fiber friction. The original Massage Star weighs 11 ounces, and the Extra Large Massage Star weighs 1 pound. The Star has three applications: the Wedge can be used to perform Muscle-Stripping and Cross-fiber Friction, and the Wide and Narrow Points can be used to perform Trigger Point Therapy and Reflexology. Can be used with massage creams and oils.
For more information, contact Magister Corporation, (800) 396-3130; www.magistercorp.com
Pilates Rehab Mat/Reformer Bundle
The Rehab V2 Max Plus Reformer from Merrithew, Toronto, features a higher carriage for use in physical therapy and physiotherapy clinics and facilities that cater to a senior or mobility-challenged client base. Instruct and perform core stability, peripheral mobility, and plyometric exercises. The equipment features removable and changeable parts to add exercise content and variety. The package includes a jumpboard, arc barrel, rotational diskboard deluxe, and ankle straps.
For more information, contact Merrithew, (800) 910-0001; www.merrithew.com
Torque Therapy Table
The Torque Therapy Table from Hausmann Industries Inc, Northvale, NJ, was created to be a revolutionary new table designed to aid in stretching, muscle isolation, joint distraction, manual manipulation, and orthopedic special testing. The special design of this table has 12 strategically placed holes that allow vertical placement of two different size moveable bolsters (3″x12″ and 6″x12″) vertically on the table and to help stabilize the patient. Videos of the table in use can be viewed at www.Hausmann.com.
For more information, contact Hausmann Industries Inc, (888) HAUSMANN; www.hausmann.com
Advanced Neurological Walker
Skokie, Ill-based In-Step Mobility Products created the U-Step Neuro as an advanced neurological walker that is reimbursable by Medicare and other insurances. As compared to rollators, the U-Step offers greater stability, maneuverability, and control—essential for severe walking conditions. In addition to the company’s standard handle bars, its platform version is built to be excellent for stroke and brain injury, as well as for those with a weak torso or stooped posture. Also new is a press-down brake version, ideal for those with poor hand strength. For Parkinson’s patients the laser and auditory cueing reduces walking hesitation. A 60-day trial program is available for rehabilitation centers.
For more information, contact In-Step Mobility Products Inc, (800) 558-7837; www.ustep.com
Back Extension Table
Bailey Manufacturing Company, Lodi, Ohio, offers the Back Extension Table, which is designed for practitioners of the McKenzie Method. It features a narrow width and a face slot to ease manual low back therapy procedures, as well as a fully adustable pelvic strap designed to stabilize patients of every stature. Rounded corners and a 1-inch-thick top ensure therapist and patient comfort. Customization options include upholstery colors, sizes, and either natural or dark walnut wood finishes. Weight capacity: 350 pounds.
For more information, contact Bailey Manufacturing Company, (800) 321-8372; www.baileymfg.com
Premium Quality Foam Slant
OPTP, Minneapolis, introduces a premium-quality foam slant made to stand up to heavy use, at an affordable price point. Sold as a pair, the OPTP PRO-SLANT features an 18-degree incline and is designed to be ideal for performing stretching and strengthening exercises to help treat and prevent common lower leg and foot problems including overuse syndromes and post-surgery contraction. Made of high quality, premium closed-cell foam, these durable slants can be excellent for use at home and in the clinic.
For more information, contact OPTP, (800) 367-7393; www.OPTP.com
Aluma Elite Basic Treatment Table
The Aluma Elite Basic Treatment Table from PHS Medical, Watertown, SD, can function in a variety of settings because of its durable H-brace aluminum construction and multiple configurations that are available. This table is manufactured to be dependable and has a 10-year warranty on the frame as well as patient-friendly options that include a nose hole and 70-degree manual lift back. Customize the table to meet specific needs by adding length or width, laminate shelves, or a cabinet that can be mounted on either end.
Fore more information, contact PHS Medical, (800) 743-7738; www.phsmedicalsolutions.com
