How-To's

Four Rifton Pacer Caster Features You Might Not Know

June 21, 2011 by Elena Noble, MPT

Recently I’ve had requests to describe the four key functions of the caster on the Pacer Gait Trainer. I’ve discovered that it’s possible to use the Pacer for years without fully appreciating everything these casters can do.

Pacer Caster Feature Breakdown
Rifton now has two caster sizes, large and small.
The large Pacer caster fits the XL, large and medium sized Pacer.
The small caster is found on the small and mini Pacers.
Both the large and small casters have the same functionality, but in a slightly different configuration.

When looking at a Rifton Pacer caster, this is what you will find:

Brake
Swivel lock
One-way ratchet control
Variable drag

Two photographs depicts the Rifton Pacer Gait Trainer casters with arrows pointing the features including brake, variable drag, one-way ratchet control and swivel lock

Brake
Function: Fully locks the Pacer caster
Applied/Clinical use:

Lock for transfers into Pacer
Locking all four casters allows your client to practice standing and weight-bearing.

Swivel Lock
Function: Positions and maintains the caster in a straight line (no lateral movement)
Applied/Clinical use:

Lock all four swivels to help clients walk in a straight line
For variable steering, unlock one (or two) swivels front or back.

One-way ratchet control
Function: Positions caster to move in one direction only (blocks involuntary backwards movement)
Applied/Clinical use:

Set this control for a client who has difficulty maintaining forward momentum during gait. For improved effect, use this feature in conjunction with swivel lock.

Variable drag
Function: Creates resistance on the caster to slow it down (think of it as a partial brake)Applied/Clinical use:

Slow down fast, uncontrolled gait by rotating the drag dial towards max drag (turtle icon)
The resistance of the drag can also be used to strengthen muscles during gait.
Set the drag on one of the posterior casters to prevent veering to one side

Follow the link to read more about the Rifton Pacer Caster and learn how to operate the features.

Has this “how-to” been helpful? Please let me know by commenting below. And let me know if you want a “how-to” on any other accessory or piece of equipment.