Step by Step: A comprehensive approach to stair climbing assistance
Device that helps a patient use stairs when one leg becomes non-weight baring
Project Overview
In the field of neuro-rehabilitation, physical therapists encounter a significant obstacle when assisting patients with weight-bearing restrictions to transition back to their homes. The primary challenge revolves around negotiating steps, which often proves to be an arduous task due to various constraints. Ramps, typically considered a solution, are frequently deemed impractical due to cost implications and compliance with rise-to-run criteria. As an alternative, patients are advised to use garden benches from hardware stores, which lack adjustability and medical design. This makeshift solution is frustrating for healthcare providers, as it is not purpose-built and poses issues with bench availability.
To address this gap in the next three months, there is a clear need for a specialized, medically designed bench tailored for step use, offering safety and adjustability to improve the mobility and independence of patients in neuro-rehabilitation.
Team Picture
Files
- Final Report (December 13, 2023)
- Final Poster Presentation (December 7, 2023)
- Preliminary Report (October 11, 2023)
- PDS (September 28, 2023)
Contact Information
Team Members
- Margo Amatuzio - Team Leader
- Delani Wille - Communicator
- Cameron Owens - BSAC
- Riley Toth - BWIG
- Grace Kreissler - BPAG
Advisor and Client
- Prof. Walter Block - Advisor
- Mr. Daniel Kutschera, PT - Client
Related Projects
- Spring 2024: Step by Step: A comprehensive approach to stair climbing assistance
- Fall 2023: Step by Step: A comprehensive approach to stair climbing assistance