Texas Health Cleburne

Walking on Air The AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill® has been putting patients back on their feet at Texas Health Cleburne since May. Featuring patented air pressure technology developed by NASA, the AlterG equipment encases patients’ lower extremities in a bubble that fills with air. This relieves the amount of weight gravity places on leg muscles and joints. The amount of “unweighting” can be adjusted according to each patient’s specific needs and progress. “You can walk on as little as 20 percent of your body weight,” says Reinier Botha, physical therapist at Texas Health Cleburne. “At this level, it’s almost like walking on the moon, where the gravitational force is 17 percent of what it is on earth.” Tread Lightly Many people who have had orthopedic surgery or a sports-related injury have trouble making a full recovery because of persisting pain. The AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill offers a special advantage for these patients by allowing them to: reduce the impact of traditional walking or running on the hips, legs and knees select a level of gravitational force that is most appropriate for them slowly increase gravity for a smooth progression to complete recovery speed up their recovery process “The AlterG equipment’s unique anti-gravity technology is also useful for people who are overweight and trying to begin an exercise regimen,” says Cindy Stepp-Gann, director of Rehabilitation Services at Texas Health Cleburne. “People with low back pain, arthritis or certain neurological conditions such as hemiplegia can benefit from the machine, as well.” To learn more about the AlterG treadmill, visit TexasHealth.org/Cleburne. Altered Outcomes: Kelly’s Story Kelly Curlee, R.N., director of Women’s Services at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne, was one of the first patients to experience the healing power of the AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill. After injuring the tendon in her left foot shortly after starting an exercise program, Curlee began experiencing shooting pains every time she tried to become active. “I was unable to walk — much less run — recreationally,” Curlee says. “I had an old ankle injury that factored into it, as well.” Under the supervision of physical therapist Reinier Botha, Curlee used the AlterG treadmill during the last two weeks of her rehabilitation. “The treadmill helped ease me back into running since I was able to gradually increase my weight as I became stronger,” Curlee says. “It’s a remarkable resource.” Special thanks to the Black and White Gala Committee and supporters for the funds necessary to purchase the AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill.

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