What is the Hart Walker?
The Hart Walker was developed by David Hart, an English Medical Engineer who specializes in the application of orthotic technology. It is a customized orthotic walking frame, which allows children with physical disabilities, especially those with moderate to severe cerebral palsy, to stand and to experience hands free walking. It consists of bracing around the chest, pelvis and the lower limbs. It has movable joints at the hips, knees and ankles which help guide each step while preventing any excessive or unnatural movements, e.g., scissoring. The bracing is attached to a wheeled frame, which allows the hands free mobility.

Although it looks deceptively simple, the Hart Walker actually has up to 1,000 working components. Once the child is used to the Walker, it can become very maneuverable.

The Hart Walker is adjustable and "grows" with the child. This could be over a period of 7 years. The Hart Walker has to be adjusted by the Hart Walker team on a regular basis. This adjustment not only caters for the child's natural growth but their physical development.

Benefits of the Hart Walker:
• Hands free mobility
• Easier social contact
• Increased self esteem that comes with standing, walking and playing at peer level

May include:
• Increased general fitness
• Improved strength, muscle control, balance and co-ordination
  Suitability To be suitable for a Hart Walker a child needs to 

Fulfill the following criteria:
• Have a consistent, reciprocal stepping pattern when supported
• Be at least 3 years of age and measure no less than 90cms in 
   total height.
• Instep to hip joint length to be less than 72cms (for initial fitting)
• Be motivated to move

Cost:
The cost of the Hart Walker is 19,500 shekels ($ 4,350 ). This amount will cover the Walker (including freight), first pair of Piedro Boots, the initial assessment and fitting with the physiotherapist and orthotist and adjustment sessions for the first 24 months. Methods of payment and/or fundraising can be discussed with Hart Walker Program staff.