Provided photot Estelle Belford uses a new set of bariatric parallel bars donated by Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital Foundation to enhance the patient experience at Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital’s inpatient physical therapy department. Pictured with Estelle are (from left) Robin Carlisle, nursing director; Brittany Penegor, occupational therapist; Jesse Aho, physical therapist assistant; Amy Mattson, physical therapist assistant; and Ryan Hokens, Therapy Services manager.

ONTONAGON – Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital Foundation donors provided funding for the purchase of a new set of bariatric parallel bars for the hospital’s inpatient physical therapy department.

The new bars have a higher weight capacity and an ergonomic design for better patient comfort, can be adjusted for use by people of varying heights and are wheelchair accessible.

Parallel bars are used in physical therapy to help patients increase their core strength, coordination and endurance; regain or improve balance; and, in some cases, re-learn to walk independently.

“We are sincerely grateful for the support of our local community and the tremendous efforts of the Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital Foundation,” said Ryon Hokens, Therapy Services manager. “These efforts allow us to make necessary comfort improvements for our patients and residents.”