How does Tailwind work?
Tailwind is a non-invasive, portable and practical device that stroke patients can use on a flat surface at home. The device consists of two handles that move along independent resistance-free tracks. The patient moves the handles along each track at a certain starting mark, in response to auditory cues. The combination of the repetitive arm movement with sound and visual cues is thought to trigger the part of the brain that controls mobility in the arm. The retraining program includes instruction in adjusting the track further away from the patient’s body as more arm mobility is gained over time. There are progressively more difficult positions for the patient that can be performed with the Tailwind device, including increased range of motion and angled arm work. Patients chart their progress over weeks and months. As a table-top device, stroke patients can continue using Tailwind until they’ve reached their optimal level of gain in arm movement.
