Are there restrictions or precautions for body weight supported treadmill training?
Author: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewers: Tania Lam , Shannon Sproule | Published: 29 November 2017 | Updated: ~
There are some situations in which body weight supported treadmill training may be unsafe to use. This not a complete list, speak to a health provider about whether this treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
Body weight supported treadmill training should not be used in the following situations:
- By people with medical conditions where heart rate, blood pressure, or seizures are uncontrolled
- By individuals who are unable to stay upright for 5-10 minutes without a major drop in blood pressure
- By people at risk of broken bones (fractures), such as people with severe osteoporosis or recent fractures
- By people with joint limitations (such as contractures) which limit walking, weight-bearing, or standing
- In areas where the harness may put pressure on open wounds or areas at risk of pressure sores
- By people using mechanical ventilation
Body weight supported treadmill training should be used with caution in the following situations:
- When there are tubes or lines attached to the body, such as a feeding tube or indwelling catheter
- By people with severe and uncontrolled spasticity
- By people with blood clots or a history of blood clots
- By people with other major medical conditions or injuries
- By people prone to autonomic dysreflexia
