Body weight support systems: considerations for clinicians

Abstract

The Body Weight Support (BWS) system used in conjunction with a treadmill has become increasingly popular in the clinical arena for the treatment of a variety of patient populations. Currently, commercially available BWS systems are designed with different types of suspension mechanisms and a variety of additional features. The purposes of this article are to: (i) provide an overview of the three main types of BWS suspension systems; (ii) review the uses, advantages, and disadvantages of each type; and (iii) highlight and discuss the many additional features that are available. Rehabilitation research conducted with neurological and non-neurological patient populations using a BWS system as a therapeutic modality is highlighted to assist the clinician to select the most suitable BWS system and features for a particular clinical purpose or patient group. Additionally, research findings for the biomechanical effects of varied BWS suspension devices on gait are discussed.