biodex 950-400, Application/Operation Manual, Page: 12 / 120

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Biodex Medical Systems, Inc. © 2017
1. Introduction
Intended Use
Designed specifically for rehabilitation and retraining of gait for patients with neurologic and
orthopedic gait dysfunctions, the Biodex Gait Trainer provides both the audio and visual
feedback needed to progress patients quickly and safely to normal ambulation.
The Gait Trainer is easy to use. The clinician need only select the patient’s age and height for
the treadmill to automatically calculate the exact speed needed to achieve desired step cycle.
The rhythmic movement and the audio feedback provide patients with added stimulus for
retraining of neural pathways to improve gait pattern.
The Gait Trainer promotes correct stride length for early phase patients. By starting out slowly
(with the zero starting speed and small, one-step cycle speed increments), it is possible to
manually position the patient’s lower extremities in the desired patterns for gait thus
reinforcing the proper techniques early in the rehabilitation process. As the patient progresses,
correct stride length is coupled to the correct step cycle. When belt speed is increased, the
patient must either take longer or more strides to stay on target. Normative data allows
clinicians to compare patient progress to baseline norms.
Indications for Use
Of course, the Gait Trainer can also be used for many other rehabilitation treadmill
applications. In the treadmill mode, its unparalleled speed control, durability, incline and
decline in both forward and reverse directions, digital feedback, low profile, and choice of
handrail configurations make it the ideal choice for virtually any patient young or old.
The Biodex Gait Trainer comes with a printer that is easy to install and resides on the printer
stand.
Assembly and Installation
The display monitor receives power from the larger Gait Trainer device. Therefore, the Gait
Trainer must be plugged into a wall outlet or surge suppressor and powered on by the ON/OFF
switch at the front base of the unit.
The Gait Trainer deck is instrumented with a strain gage at each of the four corners. It is
important that the Gait Trainer be level for optimal footfall detection. When not level, the user
may see messages concerning Leveling or Offset Calibration. Depending on the situation,
instructional screens will be displayed leading the user through any required process.
When first installed, or if the Gait Trainer is moved, the leveling foot may require an
adjustment. This will require a
¾ ” wrench. Adjust the rear leveling foot by turning it with the
wrench until the on-screen gage turns green. Please note that there is a jam nut that should be
loosened first, and re-tightened after leveling the foot. Press <OK>.