Homeward Bound Gym

Patients at Duke Raleigh Hospital can regain their independence more quickly and safely with a new rehabilitation gym.

Called the Homeward Bound Gym, the facility is available to all orthopedic and neurological patients and is a component of the Orthopaedic Center at Duke Raleigh. Through simulation areas including car transfer, stair trainer, kitchen area and bathroom area, the gym enables patients to practice tasks of daily living and more quickly regain their independence. The simulation areas of the gym are incorporated into the activity plan of all patients recovering from joint replacement or spine surgery.

The Homeward Bound Gym is an important part of the Orthopaedic Center.

The Homeward Bound Gym Includes:

Car Transfer: Patients can use the car transfer area to practice getting in and out of a car seat on either the passenger side or driver's side as well as to practice driving. The car seats change to simulate the patient's own car and can be adjusted from a bucket seat to an SUV seat.

Stair Trainer: Both inpatients and outpatients can use the stair trainer to practice going up and down steps and maneuvering curbs and ramps. The step heights are adjustable to simulate the patient's steps at home or at a family member's home.

Kitchen area: Often one of the most challenging areas when patients return home, the kitchen area includes a refrigerator, countertop, oven range, sink and overhead and underhead cabinets. Patients with musculoskeletal or neurological impairments can work with the occupational therapist or speech therapist in maneuvering around this kitchen.

Bathroom area: The bathroom area allows patients to practice a variety of safe techniques during tub and shower transfers and toilet transfers. Using the bathroom area, inpatient and outpatient therapists can instruct patients and family members on bathroom safety.

Teaching area: Located in the center of the gym, the teaching area is used to instruct patients about their procedure pre-operatively. Classes are available every week for patients and family members to learn about their upcoming surgery and to meet and talk with the staff (nurses, therapists, case managers) that will be taking care of them during their stay.

Equipment: Equipment for patients to take home such as reachers, long handled sponges, and sock aids are available for patients as they enter the gym. The occupational therapist will spend time with patients and family members showing them how to use the equipment.

The Homeward Bound gym is located on the third floor of the main hospital.

The Preoperative Orthopaedic Surgery Class is held in the Homeward Bound Gym. Register online or call 954-3499 for more information.