Our Equipment
BlazePods
BlazePods are innovative, interactive training tools that utilize light-based reflex training to enhance physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. At LV Physiotherapy in St Catharines, we incorporate BlazePods to help patients improve their reaction times, coordination, and cognitive function. These small, portable devices light up in various sequences, challenging patients to tap them as quickly as possible. This not only adds an element of fun to the rehabilitation process but also aids in the recovery of motor skills, balance, and agility. By integrating BlazePods into customized therapy programs, our physiotherapists can provide a dynamic and engaging approach to help patients achieve their recovery goals more effectively.
Nu-Step
A NuStep is a recumbent trainer designed to enhance leg muscle strength and increase workout intensity. It is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from surgeries, cardiac events, strokes, or spinal cord injuries, allowing them to engage in active exercise with ease.
The NuStep features an inclusive design and adaptive elements, providing a comprehensive upper and lower body workout suitable for users of all ages, fitness levels, and functional abilities. This makes it a preferred choice among healthcare, elder care, and fitness professionals.
Parallel Bars
Parallel bars are a set of two horizontal bars, typically mounted on vertical supports, that run parallel to each other. They are commonly used in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings, especially for individuals recovering from strokes.
In stroke rehabilitation, parallel bars serve several important purposes:
- Functional mobility
- Gait training
- Strength and balance exercises
- Safety
- Range of motion
Wide Neuro-Plinths
A Wide Neuro Plinth is a sturdy, height-adjustable table with a broad surface area. It is designed to provide a stable and comfortable platform for patients during various therapeutic exercises and treatments. The wide surface allows for more space, accommodating different body positions and movements.
Sit-to-stand Trainer
A “Sit to Stand Trainer” is a specialized rehabilitation device designed to assist individuals, particularly stroke patients, in practicing and regaining the ability to transition from a seated to a standing position. This trainer typically includes features such as adjustable support handles, harnesses, and resistance mechanisms to ensure safety and provide varying levels of assistance based on the patient’s needs. In stroke rehabilitation, it is used to strengthen the muscles of the lower body, improve balance, and enhance coordination, which are often compromised after a stroke. By repeatedly practicing the sit-to-stand movement with the trainer, patients can build confidence and gradually restore their ability to perform this fundamental daily activity independently.
Hoyer Lift
A “Hoyer Lift” is a mechanical lifting device designed to assist in the safe transfer of individuals with severe mobility limitations, such as those undergoing neuro rehabilitation. It consists of a robust frame, a hydraulic or electric lifting mechanism, and a sling that securely supports the patient. In neuro rehabilitation, the Hoyer Lift is crucial for transferring patients who may have significant muscle weakness, paralysis, or coordination issues due to neurological conditions. It ensures safe and comfortable transitions between positions, such as from a bed to a wheelchair, reducing the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver. This allows patients to participate more effectively in therapeutic activities and daily routines, promoting their overall rehabilitation and recovery.
Various Balance Equipment
Balance equipment like balance beams and BOSU balls are essential tools in neuro rehabilitation, aiding in the recovery of balance, coordination, and proprioception, which are often compromised due to neurological conditions.
Balance beams provide a narrow, stable surface for patients to walk on, helping them practice precise foot placement, weight shifting, and stability, which are crucial for safe ambulation. BOSU balls, which are half-sphere inflatable devices with a flat platform, create an unstable surface for exercises, compelling patients to engage their core and stabilizing muscles to maintain balance.
These tools are used to challenge and improve the patient’s balance and coordination in a controlled and safe environment, thereby enhancing their overall functional mobility and aiding in the recovery of everyday activities.
BTL 6000 Topline Power Shockwave
At LV Physiotherapy in St Catharines, we incorporate the BTL 6000 Topline Shockwave to help patients treating chronic and acute pain in their musculoskeletal system. Radial Shockwave machines are advanced therapeutic devices used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. These machines deliver controlled, high-energy acoustic waves to targeted areas of the body, promoting accelerated tissue repair and pain relief. Radial Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for conditions such as tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and chronic muscle pain. The treatment works by stimulating blood flow, breaking down scar tissue, and encouraging the natural healing processes of the body.
Overhead Sling System
At LV Physiotherapy in St. Catharines, we use our custom-designed Overhead Sling System to provide safe body-weight support during walking, balance training, and functional exercises. This system allows patients to move naturally while reducing the risk of falls, making it especially helpful for those recovering from neurological conditions, balance disorders, or post-surgical rehabilitation. By offering a secure environment for gait and mobility practice, the Overhead Sling System helps patients regain confidence and independence as they work toward their recovery goals.
Standing Frame
At LV Physiotherapy in St. Catharines, our Standing Frame allows patients with limited mobility to safely bear weight through their legs while supported in an upright position. This device promotes bone health, improves circulation, and activates muscles in ways that sitting or lying down cannot. Commonly used in rehabilitation for neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury, it also supports posture training and functional activities. By providing the therapeutic benefits of standing, the Standing Frame helps patients build strength, improve overall health, and work toward greater independence.
Vestibular First Insight PRO+ Infrared Video Goggles
To better assess dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders, LV Physiotherapy in St. Catharines uses the advanced Vestibular First Insight PRO+ Infrared Video Goggles. These specialized goggles allow therapists to observe subtle eye movements even in complete darkness—an essential part of accurately diagnosing vestibular conditions. By pinpointing the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms, our team can create more precise and effective vestibular rehabilitation plans, tailoring exercises to each individual’s needs for improved balance and recovery.
Functional Training Equipment (Including Stairs)
Relearning how to navigate everyday spaces is a key part of recovery. That’s why LV Physiotherapy in St. Catharines incorporates functional training equipment—like stairs with handrails—to help patients safely practice real-life tasks such as climbing steps, improving balance, and strengthening their lower body. By recreating these daily challenges in a controlled environment, we make rehabilitation more practical and prepare patients to move with confidence in their homes and communities.
Theragun Percussion Therapy
For targeted muscle recovery, our therapists at LV Physiotherapy use the Theragun, a handheld device that delivers gentle percussive pulses to sore or tight muscles. This therapy helps improve blood flow, ease tension, and reduce post-exercise soreness—making it a valuable addition to physiotherapy sessions and rehabilitation programs. By incorporating Theragun treatments, we support better mobility, quicker recovery, and lasting pain relief, helping patients move more comfortably and return to their activities with confidence.
