Introduction
Meet the modern MLK-7031 ankle joint trainer — a specialized device designed for effective training of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion of the ankle joint. This trainer was created specifically for people with limited ankle mobility, including children with cerebral palsy (CP), patients with traumatic brain injury, and people with functional ankle limitations. Thanks to its thoughtful design and flexible settings, the device becomes an indispensable aid in the rehabilitation process.
Practical experience shows that the trainer is successfully used in rehabilitation practice, helping to streamline the therapist's work: before a session, the Achilles tendon is first relaxed on the trainer, which significantly saves the rehabilitation specialist's time and effort and improves the patient's comfort during recovery.
Clinical Benefits
Therapeutic Effect
- Helps relax a spastic or shortened Achilles tendon in children
- Saves the therapist's time thanks to pre-relaxing the Achilles tendon before active exercises
Ease of Use
- Procedures can be performed sitting or lying down
- Easily adapts to each patient's individual needs thanks to a flexible settings system
- Suitable for a wide age range: from children age 4 and up (pediatric version) to adult patients (adult version)
Contraindications
The device is not recommended for use in the following cases:
- During the acute period of an ankle joint injury
- Within the first three months after surgery on the Achilles tendon or ankle joint
- In children with rare conditions such as osteogenesis imperfecta
Device Description
Technical Specifications
- Name: Ankle joint trainer
- Model: MLK-7031
- Weight: ≈5.0 kg
- Power supply: AC220V±22V, 50Hz±1Hz
- Rated input power: 48W
- Main unit dimensions: 490mm × 185mm × 183mm
- **Operating conditions:**Temperature: 10℃~40℃
- Humidity: 30%～75%
Available Versions and Age Compatibility
The MLK-7031 ankle joint trainer comes in two versions to meet the needs of different patients:
Pediatric version:
- Fits foot sizes up to 28 cm
- Recommended for children age 4 and up
- Specially adapted for comfortable and safe rehabilitation of young patients
Adult version:
- Designed for foot sizes from 28 cm to 40 cm
- Provides effective support and training for adult patients
- Retains all the functional features of the pediatric model at the larger size
Functional Capabilities
The MLK-7031 stands out for its versatility and flexible settings:
- Multi-position use: training possible both sitting and lying down
- **Angle adjustment:**Mechanical adjustment up to 45 degrees (in 5-degree increments)
- The electric drive allows rotation up to 55 degrees
- **Operating modes:**Automatic mode within a set angle range (for example, from 60 to 130 degrees)
- Manual mode for stopping at any comfortable angle
Usage Guide
Getting Ready
- Place the trainer on a flat surface or on the floor
- Adjust the position for training:
- To change position: loosen the adjustment screw on the movable seat, turn it to the desired position (sitting or lying), then tighten the screw again
- To adjust the angle: gently pull out the left and right adjustment pins, turn them slightly, set the shin support to the desired angle, then put the pins back in place
Range of Motion
- Forward position of the shin support: from 30° dorsiflexion to 25° plantarflexion
- Backward position of the shin support: from 15° to 70° plantarflexion
- Middle position of the shin support: from 10° dorsiflexion to 45° plantarflexion
Performing the Exercises
Getting Started
- Connect the device to a power source (plug into a standard 220V outlet)
- Check that the control buttons work:
Bottom button – movement toward plantarflexion (lowering)
Top button – movement toward dorsiflexion (raising)
- Secure the user's foot to the footrest with the strap
- Secure the shin to the shin support with the strap, and tighten the Velcro for a snug fit
Flexion Exercise (Raising the Foot)
- Press the top button on the controller
- The trainer will begin moving the ankle joint upward
- Once the most comfortable angle is reached, release the button
- Hold the static position for 5 to 180 seconds
- Loosen the straps or use the controller to return to the starting position
- Rest for 1-2 minutes before the next set
Extension Exercise (Lowering the Foot)
- Press the bottom button on the controller
- The trainer will begin moving the ankle joint downward
- Once the most comfortable angle is reached, release the button
- Hold the static position for 5 to 180 seconds
- Loosen the straps or use the controller to return to the starting position
- Rest for 1-2 minutes before the next set
Usage Recommendations
- Starting angle: it is recommended to start at a 90-degree angle (the neutral position for the ankle joint)
- Gradual load increase: change the angle gradually, in 10-degree increments up or down (maximum change no more than 20 degrees)
- Choosing a mode: start with manual mode to account for the user's individual sensitivity
- Exercise frequency: depending on the patient's condition, it is recommended to perform exercises 2-3 times a day, 20 minutes each time
Conclusion
The MLK-7031 ankle joint trainer is an effective tool for restoring and strengthening the ankle joint and preventing complications after injuries and surgery. Combined with ease of use and individual adjustment, this trainer is an ideal choice for both patients and specialists in medicine and rehabilitation.
Take care of your ankle health — add MLK-7031 training to your everyday rehabilitation program, and your joints will reward you with healthy movement!
For more detailed information on the correct use of the trainer and to receive video instructions, please contact our company's specialists.
