Rifton Dynamic Pacer Gait Trainer

The New Rifton Pacer Gait Trainer is the next revolutionary step in the evolution of the Pacer. A “go to” gait trainer for over 30 years, the design team at Rifton has never rested on its laurels. They have always incorporated the results of research being done in the field and listened carefully to the people who use their products and the therapists that work alongside them. In fact, many of the changes found in features and functionality of the Pacer are the result of information gathered from 700 therapists that responded to a survey sent to 4,000 therapists that have used this special needs adaptive mobility device. The Rifton Pacer Gait Trainer is offered in 5 Sizes- Mini, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large supporting users from the time they are ready to take their first steps to well into adulthood.

Here’s what’s new:

• The Single-Column Upper Frame is now found on all Pacers except Size Mini, which continues to have the double upright design. This single column facilitates greater accessibility to the user from the side, making it easier to provide assistance and adjust supports. The single-column upper frame features a locking gas spring that adjusts to any height on the indexed column using a simple single button release. This is especially helpful in multiuser environments. The whole upper frame is easily removed from the base frame to allow for storage in small spaces and to enable transport in the trunk of a car. It also allows one upper frame to be used on any of the three base frame choices.
• There are now TWO Base Options for the Rifton Pacer allowing for greater versatility in use both indoors and out.
  
  
  • Standard- The Standard Base is available for all sizes of the Pacer- Mini, Small, Medium, Large and X-Large. It is designed to be used on smooth surfaces and has four 5.5 in. swivel castors. In the redesign, even this base had some updating. Frames are just as robust but lighter and the 4 castors are better quality with twice as many ball bearings. All the same wheel functions allow you to fine tune the Pacer’s movement as the user gains control. Swivel Locks on each castor are foot activated and can make the Pacer easier to steer. Each castor also has it own foot activated Brake. The Drag Feature is made with the same material used in automotive brakes and offers light to heavy resistance to movement with the simple twist of a dial. Anti-Reverse Locks (One-Way Directional Lock) on each castor prevent involuntary backward movement (roll back). Please Note: The standard base is recommended for posterior positioning (behind the user). When the Utility Base is reversed, steering is more difficult, and the directional lock feature will not work.
  • Utility– The Utility Base allows for easy rolling over thresholds or think carpet and outdoors on lawns, gravel paths or chipped playgrounds! It is available for size Medium and Large Pacers ONLY. This base is wider than the Standard Base for increased stability. Front Swivel Castors are 8 in. in diameter and have a Swivel Lock. Rear Wheels are 11.5 in. in diameter and are equipped with a Directional Lock, Variable Drag and Brakes.

  *Odometer castor - Standard Base and Utility Base can also be chosen with an odometer castor which offers accurate measurements of distances traveled to better track progress and therapy goals. No more counting tile squares!

• Choice of Dynamic or Standard Upper Frame- The new, Dynamic Upper Frame provides dynamic weight-shifting and weight-bearing support through 2 inches of vertical and horizontal movement necessary in a natural, typical gait pattern. Each component has a separate lock-out control allowing the dynamic component to be locked out completely if desired. Please Note: Swivel Castor Locks should be used to ensure unidirectional movement forward when using the Dynamic Upper Frame. The Standard Upper Frame remains a great choice for users who would not benefit from dynamic movement and it still accommodates all the Rifton accessories you’re familiar with.
• The Multi-Position Saddle (MPS) is a new, ultimate pelvic positioning accessory available in the accessory section on this page. It is adjustable in five directions to accommodate and appropriately support each user’s posture and easily attaches to both the Dynamic and Standard Upper Frames. In fact, combining the fluid height adjustments of the MPS and the Upper Frame brings the seat low enough to facilitate transfers from a seated position. Once the transfer is completed, caregivers raise the upper frame to bring the user into an upright position. Then, using the height adjustment on the MPS, the caregivers can raise the user’s pelvis to the optimal height for weight-bearing and step-taking. The tilt adjustment can then be used to achieve optimal pelvic positioning for the most effective gait pattern.

Gait (walking) is a very fluid motion with constant dynamic shifts in weight bearing as we advance first one leg and then the other. Using a rigid device for support and assistance can at times block the development of typical patterns of this complex pattern of movement instead of supporting them. The goal, always, is to achieve the most efficient and stable gait pattern possible. A gait pattern that assimilates a natural, typical pattern of movement. The Rifton Dynamic Pacer allows and encourages these movements while offering exceptional postural support to the user.

All old accessories are compatible with new pacer except ankle prompts. You will need to purchase new ankle prompts for new bases.

Is this Product Right for You?

• A gait trainer that can provide the opportunity for dynamic movement of the pelvis while walking
• Available in 5 sizes accommodating a user elbow height from 15.5 – 49 in. (39.4-124.5cm)
• Designed for individuals with mild to moderate needs for postural support
• Maximum working load 250 lbs (113.4 kg)
• Critical Measurement: elbow height from floor
• Questions? Our therapists can help you with a proper fit. To start please click SIZING HELP and complete a simple form, or call us toll free at (800) 371-2778