Alter-G

Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill at iPS Clinics

The Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill is a cutting-edge rehabilitation tool that allows you to walk or run with reduced weight, helping you recover faster and with less pain. By using NASA's Differential Air Pressure (DAP) technology, the Alter-G treadmill supports weight loss of up to 80%, making it ideal for patients recovering from surgery, managing joint pain, or looking to improve mobility without the added strain on their bodies.

The Alter-G is a specialist treadmill that encloses the patient's lower body in an "airtight bubble", which allows the patient to walk, jog or run at as low as 20% of their bodyweight. As well as reduced weightbearing, the treadmill also eliminates the risk of falling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Alter-G Work?

The Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill uses air pressure to reduce the body weight you’re bearing while walking or running on the treadmill. This enables you to perform exercises and rehabilitation activities with less impact on your joints, muscles, and bones. By decreasing the load on the body, the Alter-G treadmill promotes faster recovery, increases mobility, and reduces pain during exercise.

Benefits of the Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill

• Reduces the impact on joints and muscles, allowing for faster recovery
• Facilitates low-impact running and walking, improving strength and endurance
• Supports natural movement patterns to enhance balance and coordination
• Helps build confidence in walking and running following surgery or injury
• Improves cardiovascular fitness without stressing the body

What conditions are treated with the Alter-G?

The Alter-G can be a useful tool in the early stages of rehabilitation of patients following severe lower limb fractures/surgery. The ability to precisely control the percentage of weightbearing allows the patient to exercise without affecting healing or increasing pain.

The Alter-G can also be very effective and safe environment for gait retraining following neurological injuries such as brain injury or partial spinal cord injury.

• Post-surgical recovery (e.g., knee, hip, or ankle surgery)
• Sports injuries, including ligament and tendon injuries
• Chronic pain conditions such as arthritis
• Neurological conditions such as stroke rehabilitation
• Rehabilitation after fractures and muscle strains
• Balance and gait disorders

Is the Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill safe?

Yes, the Alter-G Treadmill is safe and used in a controlled, clinical environment. Our trained physiotherapists will guide you through the process, ensuring a comfortable and effective session.

How long is each session on the Alter-G treadmill?

Sessions typically last between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your treatment plan and rehabilitation goals. Your physiotherapist will tailor the session to your needs and progress.

Who can benefit from the Alter-G Anti-Gravity Treadmill?

Anyone recovering from surgery, injury, or looking to manage chronic pain or neurological conditions can benefit from the Alter-G Treadmill. It’s ideal for patients who need to reduce the load on their joints while working on mobility, strength, and balance.

What alternatives are there for Alter-G?

Alternatives to the Alter-G for early-stage gait and balance retraining are our LiteGait Bodyweight Support System & Treadmill and Hydrotherapy. Our specialist physiotherapists will be happy to discuss which option is most appropriate for you.