CSIO develops machine for gait rehabilitation

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 12

The Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) here has developed a machine to help in physical exercises and rehabilitation therapy for gait improvement in patients who are unable to walk due to medical or physical reasons.

Called the Portable Harness Ambulatory System (PHAS), it supports the patient by using a body harness, and the patient is lifted partially against gravity. The amount of support to be provided is dependent on the musculoskeletal strength and stability of the patient.

The technology for PHAS was transferred to a Mohali-based firm, Oceanic Fitness Private Limited, for its commercial production and marketing. The transfer agreement was signed with the CSIO by the firms’ director, Inderpal Singh, in the presence of Prof RK Sinha, director CSIO.

Scientists at the CSIO said, “At times, due to accidents, war injuries or paralysis due to strokes, even grownups are rendered in a helpless condition where they are unable to walk and the muscles have to be re-trained and given precise training and exercise to develop. The machine’s functioning is somewhat akin to a toddler learning to walk by holding the hands of his parents who provide just enough support so that his leg muscles train and develop strength to stand up and then take steps.”

“PHAS functions by offsetting a percentage of the body mass while providing balance support gait rehabilitation therapy and training. The advantages of this system are early gait rehabilitation, less exhaustion, hence more therapy time, better gait alignment, more repetitive practice, elimination or minimisation of fall and fear of fall,” the scientists said.