Community gifts are paving the road to recovery in physio!
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
The Physiotherapy department at Sault Area Hospital helps patients get their strength back. Community support is making their recovery safer and more accessible.
Physiotherapy (or “physio”) at SAH plays a critical role in recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. SAH’s dedicated physio team supports patients admitted to the hospital and outpatients (people who come in for an appointment, and leave again after). Thousands of people depend on their services, every year. For patients recovering from a stroke or amputation, SAH is often the first step in their rehabilitation journey. Many patients continue their progress through community partners who provide ongoing rehabilitation support.
Every day, patients arrive to physio with different abilities, challenges, and goals. What they all share is the need for safe, accessible equipment. Thanks to community donations, the Physio team has new tools that help meet patients where they are.
The new leg press has become one of the most impactful, and popular, pieces of equipment in the department. A leg press is a weight machine that strengthens and builds muscles in the lower body. It’s like doing a squat, but with more back support. The old unit had limits which meant some patients could not safely use it. To use the old machine, patients had to lie flat on their back. Sometimes, laying down wasn’t possible for those with back pain or limited mobility. With the new leg press, patients can now stay seated while they exercise.
The new leg press has an adjustable backrest and footplate to fit each patient. Lower weight increments help support patients who are early in their recovery. Together, these features allow patients to slowly and safely build strength.
Community support has made this equipment accessible to many more patients at SAH.
“This equipment has become such a favourite!” said Kaitlyn Lundrigan, Rehabilitation Technician. “Patients often comment on how beneficial they find the new machine, and how much they enjoy using it.”
The leg press doesn’t just benefit patients - it also supports staff. The machine is quick to adjust and designed with safety in mind. Rehab Technicians can focus more on patient progress and less on setting up equipment for them.
A new bariatric Nu-Step is also accommodating more patients, of all shapes and sizes. The Nu-Step is a cross between an exercise bike and an elliptical machine. The new bariatric model has a wider seat and foot pedals. This makes it easier to use for patients with mobility challenges.
The Nu-Step is often used by knee and hip replacement patients following surgery. It helps warm up joints, improve range of motion, and provide cardio. “The Nu-Step offers patients cardio training, without the risk. Patients coming out of surgery can’t use a treadmill. The Nu-Step helps meet these goals during recovery,” shared Sara Ryan, Rehabilitation Technician.
One of the most important features of the Nu-Step is the 360-degree swivel seat. It helps patients, including those in wheelchairs, move on and off the machine with ease. Now, transfers are smoother, safer, and easier for care teams.
"Thank you, donors! You're helping so many in our community. The thousands of patients that come to physio at SAH every year are so grateful for this new equipment." - Kaitlyn Lundrigan & Sara Ryan, SAH Rehabilitation Technicians
The right equipment improves safety, reduces strain, and helps patients focus on healing. Because of donors, patients have the physio equipment they need to meet their goals. Thanks to community support, they’re taking stronger steps forward every day!
Donations help us deliver outstanding care.
