Thanks to a generous donation from Dr. Kate Stolee and Jim Noble, the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital has recently introduced the LiteGait® body weight support system, a specialized rehabilitation device designed to assist patients in safely relearning walking and postural control. The system employs an overhead frame and harness to partially support a patient’s weight while permitting natural movement on a treadmill or over ground. By reducing the risk of falls and reducing the physical demands of the task, it enables patients to initiate walking practice earlier and with greater confidence under the close supervision of a therapist.
This body weight support system is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from neurological injuries, such as stroke, or for those with limb loss learning to walk with a prosthesis. Therapists can adjust the level of support to allow patients to practice standing, balance, gait, and functional tasks at their own pace while minimizing fear of falling. The system provides adjustable support without moving the patient’s legs for them, so it promotes active participation and facilitates the development of strength, balance, and endurance through repeated walking practice.
The introduction of this body weight support system represents an important enhancement of our rehabilitation services, supporting patients in achieving their personal goals, whether it be to improve balance, walking, or overall function.
Because of this generosity, patients at our hospital are able to take meaningful steps forward in their recovery with greater confidence, dignity, and independence. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Kate Stolee and Jim Noble for their compassion and commitment to enhancing patient care in our community.