Cho-Pat Inc offers the Dual Action Knee Strap, which provides relief for painful and weak knees. The Dual Action Knee Strap is built on the foundation of Cho-Pat’s Original Knee Strap. The strap alleviates pain and discomfort caused by chondromalacia patella syndrome and patellar tendinitis. By applying pressure on the patellar tendon below the kneecap, the strap tightens the kneecap mechanism, improves patellar tracking, and helps spread pressure over the surface area. The strap slightly elevates the kneecap, relieves harmful pressure to injured or degenerative knees, and allows full mobility.
For more information, contact Cho-Pat Inc, PO Box 293, Hainesport, NJ 08036; (800) 221-1601; www.cho-pat.com.
Laser Probe
Meditech International Inc introduces the LDI-200 Laser Probe, which may be used with the BioFlex Professional System for the treatment of soft tissue and sports injuries, pain, and arthritis. The LDI-200 is an infrared laser (830 nm) with an adjustable-powered (0–180-mW) diode and a safety contact switch. It delivers rapid dosage to deep tissue pathologies such as the knees, the hips, and the lower back.
For more information, contact Meditech International Inc, 411 Horner Ave, Suite 1, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M8W 4W3; (416) 251-1055; www.meditech-bioflex.com.
Balance Trainers
SPRI® Products offers the Flexor™ line of core balance-training products, which incorporate resistance and instability components of rehabilitation and sports-conditioning regimens. Flexors allow therapists to adjust the levels of both resistance and instability to create a controlled environment, from elementary rehabilitation requirements to advanced sports conditioning and performance-enhancement goals.
The Rotational Flexor™ allows therapists to control an unstable environment that challenges core and lower-body stability while providing multidirectional variable resistance to train hip and knee rotation. It helps patients rehabilitate in a true-to-life functional environment by permitting the hips and knees to function in their natural biomechanical patterns and rehabilitate from piriformis syndrome by strengthening the internal hip rotators and reciprocally inhibiting the piriformis.
For more information, contact SPRI Products, 1600 Northwind Blvd, Libertyville, IL 60048; (800) 222-7774; www.spriproducts.com.
Elliptical Cross Trainer
Biodex Medical Systems Inc offers the BioStep semirecumbent elliptical cross trainer, which combines the benefits of smooth, elliptical cross training exercise with the comfort, safety, and stability of semirecumbent positioning. BioStep provides zero joint impact plus correct arm, leg, and ankle motion that emulates natural walking patterns. It may be used for orthopedic and sports-medicine applications, older adults, wellness and fitness centers, neurorehabilitation, and cardiac rehabilitation. It features a step-through frame and an easy-to-read, preprogrammable "Smart" display.
For more information, contact Biodex Medical Systems Inc, 20 Ramsay Rd, Shirley, NY 11967-4704; (800) 224-6339; www.biodex.com.
Support Tray
Altimate Medical introduces EasyStand Evolv with the Shadow Support Tray option, which follows and supports the user in all positions from sitting to standing. As the user rises to the standing position, the tray and chest pad follow to create a shadow effect. The Shadow Support Tray flips up and pivots out of the way to make transferring easier. The tray is securely attached under the seat and includes a safety mechanism that prevents it from shifting out of place. The Evolv features a redesigned modular base that allows the Shadow Support Tray to be added at any time.
For more information, contact Altimate Medical, PO Box 180, 262 W First St, Morton, MN 56270; (800) 342-8968; www.easystand.com.
Whirlpool Table
Bailey Manufacturing offers the Model 7700 Series Whirlpool Table, which is available in either a 20-inch-wide tank or a 24-inch-wide tank. The table features an "English Oak" laminated top and combination seat, and a natural or dark walnut wood finish. An upholstered 1-inch top is optional.
For more information, contact Bailey Manufacturing, PO Box 130, Lodi, OH 44254; (800) 321-8372; www.baileymfg.com.
Software CD
DocuRehab Software Inc offers a software CD that provides instant documentation for any hands-on technique and modality, and provides multiple print options for customized patient handouts and associated physician charts to keep on record. The touch-screen-compliant program includes a database with more than 1,100 animations, all of which are fully described and written by field professionals. Templates are provided, allowing users to create and customize any additional hands-on techniques and exercises.
For more information, contact DocuRehab Software Inc, 11211 Prosperity Farms Rd, Suite B204, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410; (561) 776-8108; www.docurehab.com.
Hand Grip Accessory
NuStep® Inc introduces WellGrip™, a handle-gripping accessory that makes patients’ workouts comfortable and safe. WellGrip accompanies the NuStep TRS 4000 Recumbent Cross Trainer. It is made from a 3-D spacer fabric that is designed for orthopedic and sports-medicine applications where comfort is critical. The built-in cushion minimizes pressure points against the hand, and the breathable material transports moisture away from the skin. It is available as a set, or individually in a left hand or right hand. A 1-year warranty is included.
For more information, contact NuStep, Inc, 5111 Venture Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108; (800) 322-2209; www.nustep.com.
Resistance Ball
Perform Better offers the Omni Resistance Ball, which is a safe and versatile system for total-body training. The adjustable tubing easily connects to the ball at several locations to create 20–120 pounds of progressive resistance. The tubing and the ball can be used together or separately. Two sets of adjustable tubing with foam-cushioned handles are included with the 55-cm Omni Ball. The ball may be used for shoulder presses, bench presses, resisted crunches, and lunges. Instructions and a demonstration video are included.
For more information, contact Perform Better, PO Box 8090, Cranston, RI 02920-0090; (800) 556-7464; www.performbetter.com.
Adjustable Pulley
Life Fitness introduces the Dual-Adjustable Pulley, which allows physical therapists to design customized programs for fitness, rehabilitation, sport-specific, work-specific, and functional training. Exercises can be performed from a standing position, a bench, or an exercise ball. The Pulley can also be used by patients who require a wheelchair to conduct exercises.
The Dual Adjustable Pulley features cable-motion technology, which enables users to set the weight pins only before starting to lift, and the freedom of free weights, which allows exercisers to define their own paths of motion. The pulley requires 20 square feet of floor space and provides more than 225 exercise options. With two weight stacks, one for each handle, the unit allows users to move limbs together, independently of one another, or use different weights for each limb. An integrated storage rack and an accessory kit with 10 handles and attachments come standard.
For more information, contact Life Fitness, 5100 River Rd, Schiller Park, IL 60176; (847) 288-3300; www.lifefitness.com.
Acupressure Program
Ball Dynamics International offers the FitBALL® Pressure Points™ system, which is a self-administered acupressure program that helps one prepare for workouts, manage injuries, and relieve the aches and strains of an active lifestyle. The FitBALL Pressure Points package includes two firm FitBALL Pressure Points balls (approximately 2 inches in diameter), an instructional DVD, and a full-color poster referencing 20 acupressure points. The 30-minute DVD lists muscle groups affected by each point and conditions treated with each point (such as back spasms, leg cramps, shoulder arthritis, and neck tension), so you can choose exactly what area on which to work.
For more information, contact Ball Dynamics International, 14215 Mead St, Longmont, CO 80504; (800) 752-2255; www.fitball.com.
Electronic Health Records System
Source Medical Solutions offers pediatric content for its TherapySource™ electronic health records system for rehabilitation clinics. The pediatric content includes information about the clinical terminology, tests, measurements, and treatments that comprise pediatric documentation. The system stores all documents in a database for fast and easy retrieval at the point of care, which allows occupational, speech, and physical therapy clinics to create patient notes by navigating the knowledge base and selecting the clinical components to include in a note.
For more information, contact Source Medical Solutions, 100 Grandview Place, Suite 400, Birmingham, AL 35243; (800) 719-1904; www.sourcemed.net.
Compression Wrap
VitalWear Inc offers the VitalWrap System, which provides controlled heating, cooling, and compression therapy. VitalWrap treats any type of chronic or acute sports-related injury, enhances postsurgical recovery, and helps ease chronic pain due to arthritis and circulatory issues. The VitalWrap System is portable and easy to use, and it may be employed in the clinic and at home. Its patent-pending technology provides precise temperature control, alternating hot and cold therapy, and comfortable, constant compression, which speeds healing.
For more information, contact VitalWear Inc, 130 Produce Ave, Suite L, S San Francisco, CA 94080-6523; (800) 553-4081; www.vitalwearinc.com.
Heel Cups
AliMed Inc offers Viscoelastic Heel Cups, which reduce heel-strike shock and help eliminate painful skin shear. The soft, dual-density heel cups dissipate heel-strike forces by slowing the rebound velocity and altering the direction of the remaining velocity from vertical to horizontal, away from the foot. The patented, centrally placed starburst shape reduces skin shear, resulting in fewer blisters and calluses.
For more information, contact AliMed Inc, 297 High St, Dedham, MA 02026; (800) 225-2610; www.alimed.com.
Charting Software System
Addison Health Systems Inc introduces WritePad™ Version 6.5 for its physical therapy paperless charting systems, which provides PTs with an integrated Windows-based EMR/EHR charting software system in addition to full paperless capability. Utilizing fingerprint biometrics, the system checks patients in and out, and tracks their time—assuring HIPAA-compliance.
The WritePad offers content modules that provide history, examination, exercise, and protocol screens for physical therapy/rehabilitation, occupational therapy, orthopedic, primary care, pain management, osteopathic, chiropractic, PMR, and behavioral psychology.
It also features an electronic filing cabinet (EFC), which allows you to attach electronic or scanned faxes, outside physician reports, and x-rays to the patient’s record. An EMR product line offers tools for connecting patients to physicians and therapists via the new virtual physician’s assistant™(VPA) where patients can set up their own files, online history, auto accident information, and workers’ compensation file before they come to the clinic.
For more information, contact Addison Health Systems Inc, 4823 Broadway St, Addison, TX 75001; (800) 496-2001; www.writepad.com.
Strength-Training Balls
Power Systems Inc offers Soft Touch Med Balls for strength training to increase bone density. The Med Balls are 5 inches in diameter and easy to cup in the hands, enabling users to perform resistance-training exercises through a full range of motion. They can be incorporated into any fitness, strength, core, rehabilitative, yoga, Pilates, or sport workout. The balls range from 1 to 6 pounds and are color-coded by weight. A Soft Touch Med Ball rack is also available.
For more information, contact Power Systems Inc, 2527 Westcott Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37931; (800) 321-6975; www.power-systems.com.
Foot Splint
Swede-O Inc introduces the Thermoskin Plantar FXT™ for runners who suffer from plantar fasciitis. The splint stretches the plantar fasciitis muscle in the bottom of the foot, enabling it to heal. It can be worn at night and while seated during the day to speed up the healing process. It also increases the subcutaneous skin temperature 2–3° through its Trixon® lining that lifts moisture away from the skin and traps air to prevent excessive perspiration.
For more information, contact Swede-O Inc, 6459 Ash St, N Branch, MN 55056; (800) 525-9339; www.swedeo.com.
Musculoskeletal Book
OPTP offers the book, Muscles: Testing and Function with Posture and Pain, for clinicians, students, and faculty involved in the examination, evaluation, and diagnostic processes of the musculoskeletal system. This fifth edition provides evaluation and treatment of faulty and painful conditions, in addition to coverage of manual muscle testing. The book follows a logical order of the body that begins at the head and ends at the feet. It features revised charts, drawings, and photographs throughout the text and includes a Primal Anatomy CD-ROM.
For more information, contact OPTP, 3800 Annapolis Ln, Suite 165, Minneapolis, MN 55447-0009; (800) 367-7393; www.optp.com.
Medicine Balls
OPTP introduces Power Medicine Balls for total-body resistance training and muscle strengthening. The medicine balls feature removable handles, which helps strengthen core muscles, and are available in 2-, 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-pound sizes. The balls can be strapped to the arms or legs to perform a variety of strength exercises. They can also be used for abdominal and torso exercises. The Power Medicine Ball with handles contains latex.
For more information, contact OPTP, 3800 Annapolis Ln, Suite 165, Minneapolis, MN 55447-0009; (800) 367-7393; www.optp.com.
Muscle-Conditioning Platform
Endorphin Corp introduces the 355 Series muscle-conditioning platform, which features a tabletop hand cycle and an updated cycle table. The bariatric- and wheelchair-accessible unit enables users to receive a cardio and upper-body workout without ever having to transfer from one piece of equipment to another. The versatile 355 Series adjusts to every user with a simplified adjustment mechanism. The crank arm on the hand cycle can be used anywhere from 36 inches to 50 inches from the floor. Four different resistance systems are available.
For more information, contact Endorphin Corp, 6901 90th Ave N, Pinellas Park, FL 33782; (800) 940-9844; www.endorphin.net.
CD Tutorial
DB Consultants Inc introduces the AS/PC® Practice Management System CD Tutorial, which is an interactive course on the AS/PC program. The tutorial comprises 45 videos, including 40 reports from AS/PC and the Advanced Reporting Module. Review questions and a quiz after each section allow the user to test his or her comprehension. The table of contents, bookmarks, and hyperlinks allow easy navigation of the tutorial.
For more information, contact DB Consultants Inc, 198 Tabor Rd, Ottsville, PA 18942; (610) 847-5065; www.dbconsultants.com.
Multipurpose Tape
North Coast Medical Inc introduces Anchor™ Rigid Strapping Tape and Anchor™ Fix Multipurpose Cover Tape, which can be used to treat patella glide and soft tissue injuries of the knee, scapula, spine, shoulder, and elbow.
Anchor Rigid Strapping Tape is made from a nonstretch, rayon-backed fabric with a strong-adhering zinc oxide backing. Its high tensile strength helps support ligaments, joint capsules, and muscles limit joint motion, correct muscle imbalances, and enhance proprioception.
Anchor Fix Multipurpose Cover Tape is a latex-free retention tape made from nonwoven, hypoallergenic fabric. Used under the strapping tape, it protects sensitive skin from the adhesive. Anchor Fix allows Anchor Rigid Strapping Tape to remain secure even under extreme stress and sweat.
The Anchor Rigid Taping Kit includes one roll of Anchor Rigid Strapping Tape, one roll of Anchor Fix, 10 Skin Barrier Wipes, 10 Adhesive Remover Wipes, and one taping instruction sheet.
For more information, contact North Coast Medical Inc, 18305 Sutter Blvd, Morgan Hill, CA 95038; (800) 821-9319; www.ncmedical.com.
Exercise Guide
DK Publishing offers Stretching, by Suzanne Martin, PT, DPT, which provides quick home exercises and stretches for all the main body parts to ease everyday strains and stresses. The guide features a 21-day posture program, as well as basic stretching routines for the morning wake-up, a wind-down after a long day, and an energizing warm-up to awaken the senses.
For more information, contact DK Publishing, 375 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014-3657; (212) 213-4800; www.dk.com.
Stump Support
Gerber Chair Mates Inc offers the Gerber Swing-Away Stump Support, which attaches easily to a wheelchair and supports the residual limb in the proper position. It features swing-away action for ease in patient transfer and wheelchair folding and transporting. It also includes horizontal adjustment for the length of the stump, a vertical adjustment that allows cushion thickness, and a padded support for comfort. Synthetic sheepskin pad covers are also available.
For more information, contact Gerber Chair Mates Inc, 1171 Ringling Ave, Johnstown, PA 15902; (814) 269-9531; www.gerberchairmates.com.
Athletic Tape
Kinesio Taping Association offers Kinesio® Tape, which activates the neurological and circulatory systems. Taping is based on the body’s own natural healing process.
Kinesio Tape is used to tape over and around muscles to support muscles and joints, prevent overcontraction of the muscles, improve circulation of lymph, and relieve pain. The tape may be worn on a 24-hour-per-day basis for several days per application.
For additional information, contact Kinesio Taping Association, 3939 San Pedro Dr, NE, Bldg C, Suite 6, Albuquerque, NM 87110; (888) 320-8273; www.kinesiotaping.com.
Homeopathic Sports Medicine
Boiron introduces Sportenine with Arnica, a homeopathic sports medicine that improves stamina, promotes recovery, and reduces the risk of muscle cramps, aches, pains, exhaustion, and muscle fatigue due to prolonged physical effort. Sportenine is available in a lemon-flavored, chewable tablet.
For more information, contact Boiron, 6 Campus Blvd, Building A, Newtown Square, PA 19073; (800) 258-8823; www.boiron.com.
Rehabilitation Treadmill
Biodex Medical Systems Inc introduces RTM400 and RTM600 rehabilitation treadmills that offer a true zero starting speed with .10-mph increments over a range up to 10 mph, including a powered incline (0%–15%) and decline (-3%–12%) in both forward and reverse directions.
Versatile for all patient populations, the treadmills are quiet, easy to operate, and safe to use. While both units offer an open-platform design for unobstructed use, the RTM600 provides a color touch-screen display, a heart rate monitor, and the ability to create and store custom profiles.
For more information, contact Biodex Medical Systems Inc, 20 Ramsay Rd, Shirley, NY 11967-4704; (800) 224-6339; www.Biodex.com.