A set of parallel bars is one piece of equipment a physical therapist might use in a rehabilitation clinic. This tool provides a safe and effective way to exercise gait training, balance, and related skills.
A physical therapist can help you if you have any disability or injury that affects your ability to walk or lower extremity function.
What are Parallel Bars?
These bars are made of steel or wood and are placed three feet apart. They are supported by metal adjustable legs that can be raised or lowered to suit different heights. These are the two most popular uses for parallel bars.
Gait Training
Physical therapists may use parallel bars to provide additional support after a lower extremity injury. They can also teach you how to use assistive devices such as a cane or crutches. If you fall on one side, these bars will help you.
Parallel bars can be used to push up if you’re in a wheelchair or learning to stand and sit independently.
They can also be used to aid in lower extremity amputation. Your new assist device can support your upper extremity when you learn to walk.
Some clinics have weight-supporting devices that attach to the ceiling. They allow patients to move on tracks with harnesses while being supported by them. This device helps you walk with the aid of parallel bars and takes some weight off.
Lower Extremity Exercise
Parallel bars can also be used to help with exercises of the lower extremities. They allow you to keep your balance while doing exercises like
- Mini squats
- Standing hip flexion
- Standing leg raises
- Heel raises
- Toe raises
These bars can also be used for balance exercises. If your physical therapist places a cushion under your feet, they can prevent you from becoming imbalanced.
To challenge your balance, you may do a heel-toe stance using parallel bars
A physical therapist is necessary to help you gain strength and mobility after an injury or lower extremity surgery. Parallel bars will be used by your physical therapist during rehabilitation to give you extra safety and allow you to work on strength and gait training
