Mobility gym brings useful challenges for prosthetics wearers

Just as a new model car undergoes laps on a test track, patients at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH) who are learning to walk with prosthetic legs now have a purpose-built space to regain mobility in a safe and supportive environment.

The newly established mobility gym simulates real-world conditions, helping patients gain confidence in their prosthetic limbs while allowing specialist staff to fine-tune adjustments for optimal performance.

“The gym enables us to create everyday scenarios where patients can build their confidence using their new prosthetic. It also allows us to refine the limb’s settings to ensure it works as effectively as possible,” LRH Senior Prosthetist and Orthotist Katherine Hudson said.

Patients can practice walking on different terrains, navigating stairs and ramps, and moving across grass and uneven surfaces—all under the close supervision of physiotherapists and prosthetics specialists.

Previously, patients had limited options: they either adjusted to their prosthetic in a clinical setting with flat linoleum flooring or in an open space with little privacy. The 400-metre distance from the physiotherapy department also posed challenges, as some patients found it difficult to traverse different surfaces while adapting to their new limb.

“The new gym provides a range of terrains, offering a more realistic yet controlled environment. It’s more challenging in some ways, but it also ensures privacy and safety,” Katherine said.

Beyond improving patient confidence, the facility also enables specialists to fine-tune each prosthetic to match an individual’s unique movement.

“Many people assume a prosthetic lower leg is a passive device, but modern advancements in microprocessors and Bluetooth technology mean there’s a lot of fine-tuning involved. As Prosthetists, we make adjustments that allow patients to maximize the function of their limb—helping them live as full a life as possible,” Catherine said.

The LRH Amputee Service supports patients across Gippsland, from far East Gippsland to Pakenham, ensuring they receive the best possible care in their journey to renewed mobility.

Pictured: members of the LRH Prosthetics and Orthotics Team and patient Peter Feenstra.