Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Treadmill Therapy

Today we went for Chase's first treadmill therapy. I know, I know. It sounds pretty ridiculous. Even Ian said, "But Chase can't walk on a treadmill. I want to walk on the treadmill."

Basically, as soon as children can bear weight on their feet, and if they have enough trunk strength to sit up, they can start. Chase was on the treadmill for probably a total of 5 minutes at the rehab center today- eventually he'll work up to a maximum of 8 minutes per day, 5 days a week. So, really, when we do it at home (as soon as we get the treadmill) it will be quick and easy (and we can cut out the 45 minute drive to the center. That would be excellent.)

The therapist gave me the complete study to read, and was really encouraging- also down to earth. We're going to practice doing it at home by ourselves, and check back with her in 3 weeks to see if we have any questions. She also suggested we get Chase some shoes to wear for about 50% of the time just to help give him a little arch support. So we stopped at Rack Room Shoes on the way home and bought the tiniest, cutest pair of New Balance running shoes I have ever seen. I would post a picture, but our camera is away getting it's own rehab.

**On a side note, Ian told me in the car on the way home what he wants for his birthday: "I would like to have a Woody doll, some light up sneakers, a BIG BIG rocket, and some new carrots."

7 comments:

Cate said...

That's very cool. I should look into it.

Rocket: if he hasn't mentioned a specific one, I highly recommend the iPlay Rocket. William got it for Christmas and loves it.

Tiffanyrose said...

Carrots huh? Is that to feed the Woody doll or to fuel the rocket?

LeShayne said...

Ian is too funny. Yay on the treadmill training though. I hope it continues to go well.

Angelle said...

I will get him the carrots, no worries there. :)

Melanie said...

I really want to start Logan on a treadmill. We don't have one at home. Let me know how it goes with Chase.

Bethany said...

I love that you are doing this. I know I would have if I had heard about it before Payton started walking. I can't wait to see how well it works!

Emily said...

I feel like I should be starting this . We don't have a treadmill. Do you think the people at my gym will think I am strange for walking my 7 month old on the treadmills there?