A weight management physician from St. Luke's has published a nuts and bolts guide to weight loss. Dr. James Donovan works wi

Patients are using a new overhead lift in St. Luke's Acute Rehabilitation Unit to get them back on their feet and walking.

The supported ambulation system was installed in the unit just over a month ago at a cost of $15,000 and physical therapist Rachel Warpeha says it is already making a difference.

"People have reported that they feel more secure knowing that they have this harness on; it reduces the fear of falling so they can do more," she said.

The $15,000 grant, generously funded by St. Luke's Foundation, paid for a 20-foot overhead track, support harness and treadmill.

Patients can use the treadmill, perform balance exercises or practice walking up and down stairs while wearing the harness, which prevents falls and provides partial weight support for those patients not yet able to stand on their own.

Staff estimate that 250-300 patients per year will benefit from the supported ambulation system.

Stroke and brain injury patients are likely to benefit most from the new equipment; research shows that early movement following one of these injuries leads to better outcomes for patients.

ABOVE: Jordan Olean (Physical Therapist) tests out the harness while Rachel Warpeha (Physical Therapist) and Nicole Koecher (Physical Therapist Assistant) examine the treadmill settings