Royal Rehab, the Sydney based NFP provider of rehabilitation and disability support services, has opened the Advanced Technology Centre, with access to a comprehensive range of potentially life-changing technology.
The centre is the largest of its kind in Australia with over 25 pieces of advanced technology, some of which have never been made available in Australia to date that includes the C-MILL VR+ device, (pictured). This technology combines a treadmill with body weight supports and virtual and augmented reality to improve balance, gait, and gait adaptability in a controlled environment. It mimics the challenges of real-life, helping users to navigate situations like walking in crowded areas and avoiding obstacles.
There is also the Zero G Gait and Balance System, with the longest walking track in the country. This device is a robotic body weight support that is designed to assist those affected by spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, neurological conditions and degenerative conditions, to walk. The device allows falls prevention training to minimise patient risk, so they can focus on regaining their confidence in walking, balancing, climbing stairs and manoeuvring from sitting to standing positions.
Royal Rehab chief executive officer Matt Mackay said technology, in combination with traditional therapies, has the potential to drive better outcomes that will revolutionise the rehabilitation pathway for many patients.
“We want to provide people living with a long-term disability access to these technologies, so they can benefit from improved strength and fitness and maintain or improve their functional independence,” he said.
Royal Rehab therapists have completed training to operate all 25 new devices which will be utilised in personalised rehabilitation programs.
Senior physiotherapist Jason Redhead said the centre offers Australian patients exclusive access to advanced technologies that provide greater opportunities to achieve their rehabilitation goals.
“We have seen that advanced technology is starting to play a leading role in rehabilitation programs in many other countries. We want to ensure Australians can access the best technology, such as robotic exoskeletons, body weight support systems, upper limb robotics and virtual reality technologies. It means we will see patients achieve more in their rehabilitation goals,” he said.
Access to the centre is covered under a range of funding options, including the NDIS, iCare, and self-funding. For more information contact: 1800 518 180.