09/03/2026
Since training as a Rise&Walk Champion at Summa Rehab Hospital in March 2025, PRN physical therapist Katlyn Bush, PT, DPT has used the device with inpatients and outpatients alike, and has been trusted to travel across the Ernest Health system training other therapists to do the same.
What's kept her coming back isn't one moment, but a pattern she's seen repeat for the past year and a half.
"One of my favorite parts is how much the patients love it, and how much confidence and excitement they feel from using it," Bush says. "It's been pretty incredible to see the differences in walking from just one session when we perform pre- and post-tests."
It's changed how she treats, too. "As therapists, we sometimes limit our patients by our own physical restraints," she explains. "This device has let me challenge patients beyond what I thought was possible, while keeping them safe and minimizing my physical exertion."
When it comes to standing mode, that's where she likes to get creative. "You can transition right from walking mode to standing mode, and challenge patients with tasks specific to their interests, from VR to pickleball, tall kneeling to dancing," she says. "There's something for everyone!"
Her advice for clinicians still on the fence: "Once you're familiar and comfortable with the device, it opens up a whole new set of options. I love challenging my patients so they feel good about themselves and their progress toward their goals."
