RIBONZ provides proper exercise sequencing to develop musculature and stability to return a patient back into their normal functional Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Therapy RIBONZ can be performed in supine, seated or standing positions, allowing therapy professionals to progress virtually any patient. Upper body strength and core control can begin in a supine position and be progressed into a seated position. At first, the patient may require back support to maintain an upright, controlled posture. Back support is slowly subtracted as core control improves. Once this level is attained, the patient should utilize the RIBONZ in a standing position.
Functional Components of RIBONZ include:
- ROM – The ribbons provide the therapist and patient with visual feedback to assure full potential is reached.
- Strength – There are 5 different color-coded weights a patient can use to progress. When a color is maximized, the therapist can then progress the patient by using speed to intensify the patient’s strength and core control.
- Core Control – Core stability can be reached in supine, seated or standing positions with proper posture and simultaneous movement of the RIBONZ.
- Balance/Coordination – RIBONZ can be used in conjunction with a trampoline, bosu, cushion, step, etc. to intensify a patient’s workout to develop more balance.
- Righting Reactions – RIBONZ can be used in conjunction with a trampoline, bosu, cushion, step, etc., to develop proper righting reactions in the ankles, knees, hips and core to prevent falls when ambulating on alternate surfaces.
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) – RIBONZ uses a variety of PNF patterns to improve or develop diagonal and rotational movement resulting in improved function in our daily lives.
It is extremely important to incorporate these therapy techniques into a patient’s plan of care (POC) to gain all functional benefits needed in returning a patient to their previous lifestyle.