Suspended Weight Treadmill Training: A Patient's Perspective
Paula Lazzeri

Since I read Dr. Levy and Dr. Behrman's article about suspended weight treadmill walking training in the October 2001 TMA Newsletter, I wondered if I might derive some benefit from this program. I am a C6-7 incomplete paraplegic from getting TM when I was only 12 years old. After consulting my rehabilitation physician, she recommended the program so long as my back passed a full spinal exam by an orthopedic physician. I have a full spinal fusion due to scoliosis and we wanted to be sure it would not harm my back. Thankfully, I passed with flying colors and began the suspended weight treadmill walking program at the University of Washington Hospital in November 2002.

The first appointment was great. It took time to do some range of motion exercises and to put on the harness, but I was up on my feet after that. My PT was right there at my side helping and encouraging me with every step. My right leg is stronger than my left, so my PT stood to the left of me and moved that leg each time. I was able to move my right leg, but only for a short period of time. During that first appointment, I managed to stay walking for ten minutes with one rest break. It was an exhausting experience. It was also an exhilarating experience. I was able to look directly into my therapist's eyes and to talk to her while I was standing, instead of looking up at her while sitting. I was able to look out across Lake Washington (the treadmill sits in front of a big window), instead of not being able to see out of the window at all from my chair. I was able to give my backside a long pressure relief. And I was able to achieve the closest feeling to walking I had experienced in 24 years. The exhaustion was well worth it!

In total, I have had eight treadmill walking experiences, all within a two-month period. With each appointment, I got a little stronger, walked a little longer, and noticed much less spasticity. I have not been able to schedule another appointment for the past seven months. I hope to resume the program soon. I would like to continue with at least three appointments a month.

Click thumbnail image to enlarge

During a few of my appointments, I invited my parents and a friend, Heather O'Dell, to observe my program. Heather's mom, Drema, also has TM. I thought it might be interesting for you to read their perceptions of my training program.

My parents, Norm and Gayle Peltier: We were very impressed with the treadmill therapy.We could see the value of this kind of workout.The professional who worked with you was very thorough and completely tuned in to your responses.She was always one step ahead of you in anticipating your needs. That is half of the reason for success.The other is your willingness to do this type of therapy.You put all you were capable of into it and, as far as we could see, it was good for you both physically and emotionally.We really hope you continue to do it.It can only help you. And, of course, because we love you so much, anything that can benefit you, we are completely in favor of.We got a kick out of Myk and Jesse's response to it, also. They were very caught up in the technical end of it.It didn't surprise us with Myk, though.He is always very involved with your welfaredevoted to you.We love that boy!

Heather O'Dell: I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a physical therapy appointment with Paula while I was visiting her in Seattle in November.This wasn't a typical appointment.At this appointment, Paula would actually get to walk on a treadmill. When we got there, the physical therapist, Emily, warmed up Paula's legs.Once Paula had been pulled and stretched like Gumby, Emily moved her over to the treadmill.She first hooked Paula up into a harness-like contraption.Once she got her all strapped up, she turned on the machine that actually lifted Paula up out of her chair.Paula's feet were on the treadmill,it just lifted her upper body up out of the chair.Once she had her lifted, she then moved the chair out of the way. So, basically, Paula was somewhat suspended; only her feet were on the treadmill.

There was another contraption that had handles on it so that Paula could hold on while she was walking.At this point, I was just amazed seeing Paula standing upright for this length of time.Next, Emily turned the treadmill on.Paula then took her first step on the treadmill.Wow, now that was amazing.Emily got down and helped Paula move her one foot, the foot that isn't as strong as the other one.Paula did such a great job. It was a bit overwhelming to see someone who can't walk actually get to kind of walk.I just sat back in utter amazement and watched.As Paula would get tired, Emily would turn the treadmill off so that she could have a break.

I must admit, I couldn't help but chuckle a bit at the sight of Paula hooked up with straps hanging from above.She kind of reminded me of a puppet on a string.I could have had some real fun controlling those straps and making her dance and sway to and fro.As I was saying, Paula would rest and then go at it again.This was one of the coolest things I have ever had the pleasure of seeing.To see someone who spends her life in a chair, unable to walk, actually get to stand up and have the freedom of moving her legs; that was just amazing.I can't begin to understand how that must feel.

I would like to thank Paula for allowing me to share this experience with her. I was very honored.What an emotional experience it was, to see my friend walk. It meant a lot to me watching her do it. I know it meant so much more to Paula actually getting to walk.

I would like to thank Myk, Jesse, my parents, my therapists, and my friends, like Heather, for all of the encouragement and love they give to me daily. If you are given an opportunity to try the treadmill program, I would recommend it. It is certainly worth a try!