LiteGait is a device that safely harnesses those with mobility issues allowing them to walk independently on a treadmill. Proven to be especially successful in those with neurological or musculoskeletal conditions, for example for someone who has suffered a stroke, this investment will not only transform care for patients but allow The QEH staff to work more efficiently with the patients in their care.
Purchased for The QEH West Raynham Stroke unit by the QEHKL Charity, the LiteGait will be available for all therapy teams across the hospital to use and staff are busy training teams on how to safely use this exciting new equipment and promoting the benefits.
The treadmill and harness set up also includes AI technology which tracks the patients walking pattern, flagging improvements and areas requiring attention.
Specialist Physiotherapist, Cilla Williams has been instrumental in securing the equipment. She explains: “Essentially the LiteGait allows patients to weight-bear by fully supporting them in an upright position. Walking after a stroke can be challenging, it can take up to four therapists to get the patient up and moving, with staff supporting their weight to ensure they are safe.
“This equipment will mean that we can focus on facilitating the patient’s movement, rather than supporting them. It will give our therapists more capacity and time to focus on how the patient can improve their movement, enabling us to work more efficiently.”
Recently released national stoke guidelines mandate that patients should have three hours of physical activity a day. This new equipment will support the stroke team in working towards this target.
Costing £23,000 the equipment was funded by the QEHKL Charity through several generous donations from local fundraisers. The QEH stroke therapists, knowing the difference buying the equipment would make, took on the Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge last year to raise funds towards it. Financial management company Allen Thomas & Co hosted their annual golf day, and one other generous donor, who was passionate about rehabilitation equipment, also donated specifically for the kit.
Pippa Street, Chief Nurse at The QEH, said: “This equipment is exactly what our hospital charity was set up to do – invest in equipment that transforms the care we are able to offer both for our patients and our staff. Our Stroke team are a hugely passionate group who are constantly exploring new technology that can assist and support the work they do with their patients.”
Samantha Taylor, QEHKL Charity Manager said: “Thank you to all of those who generously donated to fund this equipment – you have made a big difference to patients’ recovery here at The QEH.”
For more information on the QEHKL Charity and how you can support this worthy cause visit: The Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn Charity (QEHKL)
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Notes to editors;
If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or call 01553 613309.
For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216.
For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
About QEHKL Charity: QEHKL Charity plays a vital role in supporting The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. The charity raises funds for medical equipment, research, services, and facilities that directly benefit patients and their families. With its support, QEHKL can provide high-quality care, expand services, and improve the hospital experience for those in need.
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