Stepping out: Clinic researchers are fundraising in this year's Edinburgh Kiltwalk

Following a successful fundraising event for an AccuVue vein finder last year, the team have set their sights on a much-needed piece of equipment that will help research held at the Anne Rowling Clinic: a force balance platform. 

We asked Dr Georgia Andreopoulou, research physiotherapist, about the force balance platform. 

Can you tell us a little bit about gait and balance? 

Gait is your walking pattern, and everyone’s gait is unique. Sometimes, an underlying medical condition can cause changes to your usual walking pattern. For example, health conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s can cause problems resulting in gait abnormalities. 

Balance problems are a common symptom that can lead to trips and falls which can negatively affect daily activities.

Are you researching balance and gait at the Anne Rowling Clinic? 

My current research at the Anne Rowling Clinic is focused on walking and balance impairments in people with MS, at different stages of their disease.

What is a force platform and what benefit would it be to have one in the Clinic? 

A force platform measures reaction forces, offering insight into the mechanics of movement. This can be used to assist in rehabilitation, and possibly even be used to predict future changes. 

Having a force platform at the Anne Rowling Clinic will give colleagues the opportunity to perform studies of balance in people living with neurological conditions.

How much do force platforms cost? 

The platform we want to purchase costs approximately £12,000.  A team of researchers are determined to do the Mighty Stride at this year’s Edinburgh Kiltwalk, with funds raised going towards the cost of the force platform.

The fundraising efforts of amazing Anne Rowling Clinic supporters has meant that already a total of £6,200 has been raised.  

• Neil and Alastair raised £5,700 by taking part in the 26th Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique in January. 

• Gillian raised over £500 by completing the Glasgow Kiltwalk’s Big Stroll.

Other amazing fundraising supporters who are supporting this initiative are 

• Hannah, who is taking part in the Dundee Kiltwalk, Mighty Stride. 

• Ashley, Gemma, and Martin who are taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk Mighty Stride.

• Fiona, Lynne, and Val are using their 60th birthday celebrations to raise funds.

We wish everyone well, safe walking, and enjoy the birthday celebrations! 

Useful links

Anne Rowling Clinic research team's Taking Steps JustGiving page (external website)

Research and trials at the Anne Rowling Clinic

How your money helps

Fundraise for the Anne Rowling Clinic

Supporters fundraising pages

You can also support our wonderful fundraisers at their fundraising pages

Hannah Kane - Dundee Kiltwalk JustGiving page (external website)

Fiona, Lynne, and Val - 60th Birthday celebrations JustGiving page (external website)