Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Centers

Mount Sinai offers a unique program for patients receiving inpatient and outpatient services who have paralysis, physical or neurological limitations from a spinal cord injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), or brain injury that limits their ability to stand and/or walk.

Our exoskeletal assisted walking therapy program can begin as soon you are cleared by your doctor. Some of the potential benefits that may be expected from exoskeletal-assisted walking include improved self-esteem from being at eye level, improved bowel and bladder function, less interrupted sleep and daytime fatigue, and weight loss.

Mount Sinai offers two types of powered exoskeletons for exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW): the Ekso GT and the ReWalk.

The Ekso GT is an exoskeleton device for people who have had spinal cord injuries (SCI), strokes, or other conditions affecting walking. Designed to support patients to re-learn standing, weight shifting and stepping patterns for walking, the Ekso GT helps patients improve speed, stamina, balance, and control.

Powered by a system of electric motors, levers, and hydraulics, the Ekso GT uses Variable Assist software which helps physical therapists determine how much power is provided to each side of the user’s body, depending on the level of paralysis. The computer program uses force and motion sensors to monitor the user’s movements and then uses the information to decide how much resistance or force is needed to help the user walk.

Physical therapists examine each individual and develop a plan, using treatment techniques to promote the ability to move, reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

Occupational therapists evaluate each individual and provide customized interventions to improve the person’s ability to perform daily activities and function in the home, workplace and community.

We offer a one-on-one, individualized treatment approach that may include the following therapeutic techniques:

• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
• Alternative techniques (i.e. yoga, tai chi)
• Assessment for adaptive equipment
• Core stabilization
• Gait and balance training
• Joint Mobilization
• Manual therapy
• Modalities, as needed
• Postural education
• Splinting
• Stretching and strengthening
• Therapeutic Exercise

Patient education is also an important part of your rehab process and you therapist will guide you in managing your home exercise program to maintain strength and mobility during and after you have completed rehabilitation at Mount Sinai.