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Brooks Rehabilitation Introduces Lite Run Technology

Brooks Rehabilitation, a leading name in physical rehabilitation, has recently made headlines by integrating Lite Run Inc. technology into their patient care programs. This move marks a significant advancement in improving mobility for patients during their recovery process.

In a notable partnership, Brooks Rehabilitation has acquired FDA-registered Lite Run anti-gravity mobilization devices, becoming the first inpatient rehabilitation hospital in the nation to implement this groundbreaking technology. Lite Run utilizes a patented wearable exosuit alongside low-pressure air technology that alleviates up to 150 pounds of body weight. This innovation aims to assist patients in safely mobilizing earlier in their recovery journeys, thus enhancing their overall rehabilitation experience.

The Benefits of Early Mobilization

Mark Bowden, PhD, PT, who is the VP for Clinical Integration and Research at Brooks Rehabilitation, highlighted the importance of early mobilization in the recovery process. He explained that Brooks evaluates numerous new technologies through their Center for Innovation to ensure they provide tangible benefits. After an extensive evaluation of Lite Run, they recognized that it fills a crucial gap for patients requiring specific care, enabling them to mobilize with reduced assistance from clinical staff.

The hospital has purchased three Lite Run devices, with one already in use at two hospital locations in Jacksonville, Florida. Another device will be operational at their soon-to-open hospital in Phoenix on the Mayo Clinic campus. This technology is particularly aimed at helping patients recover from conditions such as strokes, spinal cord injuries, and other complex mobility impairments, promoting independence and a quicker return to daily activities.

Impacts on Patient and Clinician Experience

The Lite Run devices facilitate a range of therapeutic activities including walking, balance training, and strengthening exercises. They support various forms of therapy tailored to individual patient needs, allowing therapists to engage with patients more effectively and with greater ease. Patients have expressed appreciation for the comfort provided by the Lite Run exosuit, as it allows them to participate in multiple therapies without being confined to traditional treadmill settings.

Kathryn Swanson, PT, DPT, NCS, who oversees tech incorporation at Brooks Rehabilitation, conveyed her enthusiasm regarding the broader potential of Lite Run technology. With its implementation, therapy teams now have an advanced tool to safely mobilize patients earlier than ever, thereby enriching the patient recovery experience.

Addressing Staffing Challenges in Rehabilitation

In today’s healthcare landscape, rehabilitation providers face increasing pressure to deliver improved outcomes while managing staff shortages and treating more medically complex cases. Gregg Smith, CEO of Lite Run, asserted that their technology is purposefully designed to aid therapists in navigating these challenges. By alleviating some of the physical burdens on clinicians, Lite Run enables therapists to assist more patients concurrently, enhancing the efficiency of the rehabilitation process.

The trend towards earlier movement in rehabilitation is backed by growing evidence that indicates significant benefits for patient outcomes. Moreover, as healthcare providers strive to minimize complications arising from immobility, technologies like Lite Run are crucial in supporting a more effective recovery experience for patients, especially elderly or neurologically impaired individuals who require specialized care.

The Future of Rehabilitation at Brooks

Brooks Rehabilitation stands at the forefront of innovation in physical rehabilitation care, with over five decades of invaluable experience. It is recognized as the top rehabilitation hospital in Florida and ranks within the top 20 nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report. The inclusion of Lite Run technology reinforces Brooks’ commitment to advancing rehabilitation practices through cutting-edge research and integration of innovative solutions.

As Brooks continues to expand its reach, particularly with the upcoming facility in Phoenix, it remains dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with physical disabilities. The introduction of the Lite Run technology is but one of many steps towards this goal, emphasizing the need for effective, low-impact solutions that empower both patients and clinicians alike.