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6.5 Body Weight Support (LokoStation)
Functional Description
The BWSS is responsible for static or dynamic body weight support. The center of gravity (COG) of patients
shows a sinusoidal curve during walking cycles. For static weight support one has to shift a metal bar over the
weight track for locking. That means the elevation ropes will have a fixed length during therapy. Because of the up
and down movements of the center of gravity during walking/gait cycles, the patient takes over more body weight
in the stance phase as opposed to the swing phase.
During dynamic body weight support, one determines a specific weight support which follows the COG throughout
the whole gait. In every single phase of patient movement, it is guaranteed that the chosen weight supports the
patient.
As a precaution check the patient’s ability to stand alone before using the Dynamic Weight Support Therapy
method.
Operation
The wheelchair patient is pushed onto the treadmill over the ramp or walks by himself on the walking surface. The
elevation ropes have to be released with the winch up to the patient’s shoulder level. The patient will be placed
with the wheelchair right below the fasteners which will be fixed to the harness (see picture below).
6.5.1 Preparation Setting Shoulder
Figure 1
The first two pulleys of the elevation ropes (to attach the harness) should be fixed individually related to the
shoulder width of each patient. Make sure that the elevation ropes are not tied up during width adjustment.
