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Walkaid or bioness- both legs?

Posted: Fri May 08, 2009 10:41 pm
by whyRwehere
So, what if you have 2 weak legs and a very weak core...will these aids help? Does anyone have a machine that sends pulses to the core. I've wondered about the contraptions you can buy at the sport store here, where you place pads on your stomach to make it firmer...I wonder if it's safe to use on my husband. But mainly if he has the above problems, is it still possible for the walk aids to help him?

Posted: Sat May 09, 2009 7:00 am
by chrishasms
I too suffered from a weak core. In fact it's something I work on every day on PT.

A Walkaide will work with both legs. I see no reason it wouldn't. It will definitely help build back strength as well. The exercise mode is nice because you can exercise without ever moving.

I use the Walkaide over the Bioness for a 2 reasons. The first is it's around 1000 dollars cheaper. The second is the Walkaide a one piece unit where the Ness is a three piece unit. I had issue remembering where I kept my car keys, wallet and cell phone. I can't imagine loosing one of those peices on the Ness and having to repay it.

Call Hanger and make an appointment to try the Walkaide out. It costs nothing to try and see if it would work well for you. I think it will and you will be pleasantly surprised!

Posted: Sat May 09, 2009 7:14 am
by Sharon
I know that I read about someone using two WalkAides - I will try to find and link the post.

The core issue is a tough one --- I have been doing Pilates for three years - the first year was a struggle every session - the second year a little bit better - the third year I can do all the exercises. I am also doing strength training. The exercise program is a committment but IMO it is worth the effort.

Be proactive with your WalkAide technician - the device works but it really needs to be customized for you. You need to let the technician know if it doesn't feel right.

Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 11:27 am
by whyRwehere
Thanks for the replies. 2 units would be twice the price, maybe that would be just too, too much! I would love it if my husband could do more exercises, but it's as though he is sure when he bends his spine it is causing more inflammation, so that limits the exercises for the core, he won't try them...he does do stretches and physio/ leg exercises, where the therapist does most of the work.

Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 12:09 pm
by Sharon
whyRwehere wrote:
I would love it if my husband could do more exercises, but it's as though he is sure when he bends his spine it is causing more inflammation, so that limits the exercises for the core
Core exercises do not necessarily require bending.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/core-strength/SM00047

Google "core exercises" - you will get many hits - your husband could concentrate on those exercises he feels comfortable in doing.

Good Luck

Posted: Thu May 14, 2009 12:23 pm
by whyRwehere
Oh, that's good. When he gets back tomorrow, I'll have him try some.
Thanks!