A New Method of Training for the Lower Extremity Using Unloading
D.D.Kelsey, PT,OCS
Ed Tyson, MD

Rehabilitation of the patient with lower extremity dysfunction is frequently limited to open kinetic chain exercise due to pain and weakness in weight-bearing positions. Although hydrotheapy has been used in the past as a method of reducing body weight forces, task-specific training is not possible due to the resistance offered by water and the inability to regulate load. This clinical commentary describes a new form of lower extremity rehabilitation through the use of unloading, a controlled reduction in body weight during task-specific activities. Two case reports of professional basketball players with foot injuries are presented in order to describe this method of therapy, which in the authors’ opinion, has the potential for broad applications in physical rehabilitaion and deserves further research.

JOSPT vol 19, no 4 April 1994