Suspension therapy is based around suspending the child with a harness and elastic bungees attached to a large metal frame. The frame is designed so that it enables the bungees to be positioned, lengthened and shortened, according to the height and weight of the child and the exercise being performed.
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When expertly configured by our therapists, it is possible for many children to stand without further support. The benefits that this brings to the child are many.
Though careful adjustment of the bungees, some or most of the child's weight can be taken by their legs while maintaining an upright body posture. This strengthens the legs and helps to lengthen the hamstrings.
Tight hamstrings are a problem experienced by many children with Cerebral Palsy. Balance and weight shift skills are also improved.
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Suspension therapy can also be of neurological benefit as the brain receives new signals and experiences from being in an upright position. Lastly, but very importantly, some children experience for the first time being upright and standing unsupported by parents or carers.
