Home-Based, Elastic Band Facilitated High-Intensity Gait Training in an Individual with Chronic Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Case Report
I graduated from Ithaca College in 2004 with a Masters of Science degree in Physical Therapy and from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2007. I became board certified in neurologic physical therapy in 2014. The majority of my career was spent specializing in spinal cord injury and working at The Shepherd Center, in Atlanta, one of the nation’s top rehabilitation hospitals. While at Shepherd, I helped to develop the Activity Based Therapy Program where I helped patients to maximize their recovery potential by applying principles of neuroplasticity and using a wide range of technology and creativity. I have been a guest lecturer at various Physical Therapy programs on topics including neurologic gait, neuroplasticity, and robotic exoskeletons. I also have a special interest in health, wellness, and exercise after spinal cord injury and have published and performed research in this area as well.
With a background in aquatics and a love for the water, I enjoy and recognize the many benefits of incorporating aquatics into physical therapy and wellness sessions. I strongly believe that movement is healing. I became a STOTT PILATES® Certified Mat and Reformer Instructor in 2021 after personally experiencing the benefits of Pilates. I am also certified in PWR!Moves® for Parkinson’s Disease and have specialized training in treating individuals with Parkinson’s Disease.
I am excited to share my experience and knowledge of neurology and movement to help others maximize their function and lead active and healthy lives. I enjoy being active through running, swimming, and Pilates as well as spending time enjoying the outdoors and the coast with my husband and two young boys.
Jordan, a helicopter crash survivor, suffered spinal fractures and nerve damage, leading to muscle control and coordination issues. When the pandemic closed her clinic, NewGait stepped in, enabling her to continue rehab at home with virtual support. The device improved her stability, reduced unnecessary movements, and enhanced her posture and walking mechanics. Jordan’s progress has been remarkable, doubling her walking distance and regaining muscle strength, with NewGait playing a key role in her recovery.
Emily DeVooght fractured her T12 vertebra after a 12-foot fall onto concrete and was told she might never walk again. However, with the help of physical therapist Kim Spranger and the SpeedMaker device, Emily defied the odds. Initially skeptical, Emily found that the device stabilized her hips and pelvis, improved her gait, and helped her regain arm movement, enabling her to walk confidently. Originally designed for runners, the SpeedMaker proved transformative in Emily’s recovery, taking her from unsteadiness to running again. Emily credits the device for restoring her confidence and believes she will one day walk without it.
Discover how NewGait can transform mobility for your patients—sign up for a trial today.