Maria Parham’s Volunteer Services Department Steps up Again
11/15/2011
Maria Parham’s Volunteer Services Department Steps up Again
Maria Parham Volunteer Services Department recently purchased a gait analysis system for the Rehabilitation Department of the hospital. The system is used to video patients while they walk or run. This allows the physical therapist to replay the video multiple times to determine where there are strengths and weaknesses in the individual’s gait pattern without having the patient do the task over and over.
It takes many years of experience to develop observation skills keen enough to watch someone perform an activity and determine problems. The system allows the staff to make a video from multiple angles and observe that video on a computer screen. After the video is taken, the therapist can use computer software to play it in slow motion in order to observe angles, impact forces, and unusual patterns. It is an additional tool to tailor therapy to the individual patient, so that they can improve more quickly. The system is portable and can be used outside. It enables the therapists to analyze golf swings, throwing activities, swinging activities and jumping. The Rehabilitation Department will begin to use the gait analysis system with their current patients, but there are future plans to utilize it for non-medical clients as well.
The Rehabilitation Department at Maria Parham would like to thank Volunteer Services for helping them improve patient care at Maria Parham Medical Center.
About Maria Parham Medical Center, A Duke LifePoint Hospital
Maria Parham Medical Center, located in Henderson, NC, is a regional hospital serving the people of north central North Carolina and Southside Virginia. As a Duke LifePoint Hospital, Maria Parham offers a combination of Duke University Health System’s unparalleled expertise in clinical excellence and quality care, and LifePoint Hospital’s extensive resources, knowledge and experience in operating community hospitals. Maria Parham offers a wide range of services and the latest technology to meet the healthcare needs of the community. It is fully accredited by The Joint Commission and CMS. For more information about Maria Parham Medical Center, please call (252) 436-1800 or visit www.mariaparham.com.