Helping a Spinal Injury

Reason for using the treadmill: I am left disabled following a sudden onset of transverse myelitis which affected my cervical spinal cord in 2014. My recovery is such that I now function as an incomplete paraplegic T12. It is essential that I continue daily with physical activities to ensure that I do not lose the level of function. I cannot stand and walk without aids and hence finding out about the anti-gravity treadmill has been invaluable.

How long had I used the treadmill: I had used the treadmill regularly twice a week for about 6 months.

How has it helped me: At the beginning, using the equipment I was able to walk for 2 sessions of 4 minutes with a break in between. I had progressed to using the equipment up to 30 minutes continuously. The benefit was enormous in terms of my general stamina and mobility plus the major psychological effect.

Effect on my day to day life: My wife (a retired physiotherapist) commented on the positive effects (noted above) which were becoming clearly apparent. What is apparent is that since the lockdown was implement it has been difficult to maintain the same level of improvement.

How do I find using the equipment: With the help of the staff at the centre, I have not experienced any difficulties at all. I would not be able to manage without their help.

Any other comment: What has become more and more apparent since the lockdown, started since when I have not been able to use the equipment, is that the psychological benefit was greater than I had realised it was. I always recognised the physical benefits and how these ‘overflowed’ into my daily life but had now appreciated the significant psychological benefits in the period since the gym had to close.

Because of my disability, I am restricted and limited in how I am able to access other equipment.