Physical Therapy in Roanoke, VA: How Friendship’s AlterG Helps Seniors and Athletes
Whether you want to walk more comfortably, regain mobility after surgery or return to running after an injury, finding the right physical therapy team matters.
For people exploring physical therapy in the Roanoke and Salem, Virginia, area, Friendship Health & Rehab offers personalized rehabilitation with access to the AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill® at both it North Campus location in Roanoke and the Richfield Living location is Salem. This technology reduces the amount of body weight placed on the legs during walking or running, helping make movement more manageable as part of an individualized treatment plan.
What Is AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill Therapy?
AlterG uses a pressurized air chamber surrounding the lower body to provide adjustable support. By reducing weight-bearing, it decreases the load placed on joints and muscles while a person walks or runs on the treadmill.
A physical therapist can adjust the amount of support to match the patient’s needs and gradually increase weight-bearing as appropriate. This creates opportunities to practice movement when walking or running at full body weight may be uncomfortable or difficult.
At Friendship, AlterG is one tool available to help patients work toward their rehabilitation goals.
Physical Therapy for Seniors: Supporting Mobility and Independence
For older adults, joint discomfort, weakness or recovery after an injury can make everyday activities challenging. Walking to the dining room, shopping or enjoying an outing with family may require more effort than before.
As part of a personalized physical therapy plan, AlterG may help seniors:
- Walk with less strain: Reduced weight-bearing can make movement more tolerable for people with joint discomfort.
- Build walking endurance: Adjustable support allows patients to practice walking and gradually increase activity.
- Improve walking patterns: Therapists can guide repeated steps while tailoring support to the individual.
- Develop confidence: Supported walking can help patients feel more comfortable practicing movement during recovery.
For seniors and families seeking rehabilitation in the Roanoke Valley, these goals connect to something meaningful: greater independence and participation in daily life.
Physical Therapy for Athletes: A Gradual Return to Activity
Athletes do not have to compete professionally to benefit from rehabilitation technology. Recreational runners, weekend athletes and active older adults may all need support after an injury or surgery.
When appropriate for the condition and stage of recovery, AlterG allows walking or running with reduced impact. That can help an athlete work on conditioning and movement while progressing toward greater weight-bearing demands under a therapist’s guidance.
For someone hoping to return to a favorite running route, the playing field or a regular fitness routine, physical therapy should address the demands of that activity. AlterG can contribute to a broader plan that also considers strength, movement quality and readiness to return to sport.
Personalized Rehabilitation for Different Ages and Goals
An older adult rebuilding walking endurance and a runner recovering from an injury may have different starting points, but both need care tailored to their abilities and goals.
A rehabilitation professional determines whether AlterG is appropriate, how much support to use and how to progress treatment. The plan takes into account the person’s condition, medical restrictions and response to exercise.
Progress may mean walking farther, moving more comfortably or preparing to return to a sport. The focus is on helping each person work toward the activities that matter to them.
Find AlterG Therapy at Friendship’s Two Roanoke Locations
AlterG is available at:
- Friendship Health & Rehab North
367 Hershberger Road, Roanoke, VA 24012
(540) 265-2200
- Friendship Richfield Living Health Center
3730 Richfield Lane, Salem, VA 24153
(540) 444-3668
Both locations offer options for people seeking rehabilitation in the greater Roanoke and Salem area.
Looking for physical therapy in Roanoke or near Salem, VA? Contact Friendship Health & Rehab North or South to discuss your rehabilitation needs and ask whether AlterG could be part of your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About AlterG Physical Therapy
Where can I find AlterG therapy in Roanoke, VA?
Friendship offers the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill at both Friendship Health & Rehab North and Friendship Richfield Living in Roanoke.
Can seniors use an anti-gravity treadmill?
Yes. When clinically appropriate, a physical therapist may use AlterG to help older adults practice walking with reduced weight-bearing and work on mobility and endurance.
Can AlterG help runners and other athletes?
AlterG may support walking, running and conditioning with reduced impact during rehabilitation. Its use depends on the injury, stage of recovery and treatment plan.
How do I know whether AlterG is right for me?
Contact Friendship’s rehabilitation team at (540) 265-2200 in Roanoke or (540) 444-3668 in Salem to discuss your needs. A rehabilitation professional can evaluate whether AlterG is appropriate for your goals and medical condition.