RT200
It may be difficult to move your arms or legs the way you want after an injury or a neurological condition. At Brooks Rehabilitation, we use the RT200, a seated stepping system that uses functional electrical stimulation (FES). This device helps you activate muscles in your upper and lower body and supports coordinated movement during therapy.
What is RT200 Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) step therapy?
The RT200 is a seated step trainer that uses gentle electrical stimulation (e-stim) to help your muscles contract. Electrodes are placed on your skin that send signals to targeted muscles in your arms, legs or midsection.
These signals are timed in a pattern to create smooth, repetitive movement. This allows your arms and legs to move together in a coordinated way, even if you have limited control of them on your own.
Who RT200 helps
This technology may help people working to improve strength, coordination and mobility when dealing with orthopedic injuries or neurological conditions, including:
How RT200 therapy works
During your session, you’ll sit on a seated stepping machine. Your therapist places electrodes on specific muscle groups in your arms and legs. These electrodes deliver gentle electrical signals that trigger your muscles.
As your muscles begin to contract, the machine starts to move. Your arms and legs work together in a coordinated, back-and-forth pattern. You may assist with the movement, or the system may guide it, depending on your strength. This repetitive motion helps your body practice movement in a structured, supported way.
Key benefits of RT200 therapy
RT200 combines muscle activation with full-body movement, which is an important part of recovery. This technology can help:
- Activate muscles that are weak or difficult to control
- Improve strength and coordination in the arms, legs and trunk
- Promote consistent, repetitive movement
- Support circulation and cardiovascular health
What to expect with RT200 therapy
Before your session, your therapist will help position you on the seated elliptical and place the electrodes on the areas being treated.
You may feel a gentle tingling or pulsing sensation as the e-stim activates your muscles. Your therapist will adjust the settings so you remain comfortable.
During therapy, you may:
- Move your arms and legs in a cycling-like pattern
- Complete guided sessions based on your strength and endurance
- Practice steady, repetitive movement to build coordination
How RT200 differs from RT300
RT200 is part of the group of e-stim technologies we use. Your therapy team will recommend the right system based on your needs and goals.
- RT200 focuses on full-body movement: It’s a seated stepping device that helps you move your arms and legs simultaneously.
- RT300 provides more advanced, personalized training: It targets multiple muscles, provides adjustable resistance and promotes long-term progression
How Brooks supports your recovery with RT200 therapy
At Brooks, your care is designed to help you regain movement safely and build confidence as you progress. Rehabilitative technology, like the RT200, is part of our broader therapy program to help you return to daily life.
At Brooks, you can expect a team that:
- Combines advanced technology with hands-on therapy: We use tools like RT200 alongside guided exercises to support safe, active movement.
- Creates a plan tailored to you: Our specialists adjust therapy based on your condition, goals and progress.
- Provides care across your recovery journey: We offer therapy options through inpatient, outpatient and other programs as your needs change.
- Focuses on meaningful, everyday movement: Our goal is to help you stand, walk and move more independently.
FAQs About RT200 therapy
What is RT200 functional electrical stimulation (FES) therapy?
RT200 is a therapy system that uses electrical stimulation to activate muscles while you pedal on a seated stepping machine. It supports the strength, coordination and mobility of your arms, legs and midsection.
How is RT200 different from other FES devices?
RT200 activates muscles in both the arms and legs at the same time. This allows for coordinated, full-body movement rather than focusing on one area.
What does an RT200 session feel like?
During therapy, you sit or recline on a supported stepping machine while your muscles are gently activated. You can move both your arms and legs at the same time in a circular motion. You may feel a light tingling sensation as the system works.
Where is RT200 therapy available?
RT200 may be available in both inpatient and outpatient settings, depending on your treatment plan. Availability may vary by location.
Getting started at Brooks Rehabilitation
Find out more about becoming a patient. You can also contact us to learn about RT200 and other technology-assisted therapy options we offer.