The Pacer is the gait trainer to reach for when a child or adult can take some weight through their legs but cannot walk safely alone. It sets up as an anterior or posterior walker, and every support moves without tools, so a therapist can change the configuration mid session rather than working around it.
The dynamic upper frame is what separates it from a rigid frame. It gives vertically and horizontally, so the pelvis and trunk shift as they would in real walking instead of being held still. A standard fixed upper frame is available where that give is not wanted. Choose the standard base for clinics and classrooms, or the utility base with larger wheels for playgrounds, footpaths and grass.
Prompts are added as the person needs them: arm prompts and arm platforms with handgrips, hand loops, handlebars, a chest prompt and pad, a multi-position saddle, pelvic support, hip positioner, thigh and ankle prompts. Castors can be set to swivel, fixed, one-directional so the frame will not roll backwards, or drag-resisted to take the speed out of it. Handbrakes, a communication tray, an attendant guide bar and an odometer are available.
Who it suits
Children and adults with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, acquired brain injury, muscular dystrophy or developmental delay who can bear some weight through their legs but cannot walk safely on their own. Schools, therapy clinics and families use the Pacer for daily walking practice, and one frame carries a person through several years by swapping prompts and moving up a size when needed.
Good to know
- Sizing is by elbow height, not age
- Prompts and supports are ordered separately, so a Pacer is configured to the person rather than sold as a fixed package
- The person needs to be able to get to standing, with carer help, before they are in the frame
