Cage Therapy Services

Cage Therapy (Universal Exercise Unit)

The Universal Exercise Unit (UEU), often called Cage Therapy, is a therapeutic system that helps children improve strength, balance, and independence in movement. Using suspension or elastic support, children can safely explore movement and build functional skills. The UEU has two main systems: the Pulley System and the Spider Cage.

How does it work?

By using suspension or elastic cords, the Universal Exercise Unit reduces the effects of gravity or provides safe resistance. This support makes it easier for children to perform assisted or independent movements while building strength and coordination. The system is used in two ways: the Pulley System and the Spider Cage.

Pulley System

The Pulley System supports a body part in suspension, reducing the effects of gravity. This makes it easier for children to perform assisted or independent movements.

Key Benefits:

● Prevents muscle atrophy

● Builds muscle strength

● Improves range of motion (active and passive)

● Encourages precise, isolated movements

● Helps prevent joint contractures

● Improves muscle tone and proprioception

Spider Cage

The Spider Cage uses elastic cords to support the body while allowing free, dynamic movement. This creates a safe environment for practicing balance, coordination, and functional skills.

Key Benefits:

● Improves strength, balance, and stabilization

● Builds coordination and core control

● Supports sensory integration

● Promotes independent movement and functional skills

● Encourages midline orientation

 

How to Qualify for Cage Therapy

One of our physical therapists will determine if Cage Therapy is the right fit. This includes reviewing your child’s medical history, current abilities, and therapy goals. If appropriate, a personalized plan will be created to help your child benefit from Cage Therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our FAQs to find quick answers to common questions about our service.

Q: Is Cage Therapy safe for my child?

Yes. The systems are designed to support the body and reduce strain. Therapists carefully adjust support and follow strict safety rules.

Depending on their goals, your child may work on strength, range of motion, balance, or coordination. Activities can include assisted movements, dynamic play, or functional skill practice.

Children with decreased strength, balance difficulties, coordination challenges, or motor planning needs often benefit. It’s adaptable for a wide range of abilities.

Through repetition and practice, Cage Therapy supports neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to create new pathways, helping children gain lasting improvements in movement and independence.

Explore Our Pediatric Therapy Services

At Cheshire Fitness Zone, we offer a full range of pediatric therapy services designed to help children reach their fullest potential — including Physical, Occupational, Speech, Aquatic, and Feeding Therapy programs.

What Clients Are Saying

I am so happy we found Cheshire Fitness Zone. This is just what my son needs. His school also heard of you guys and said great things. I’m happy to know he is in good hands.
Anonymous
Cheshire Fitness Zone has tremendously helped not only our two children receiving services, but our entire family. The atmosphere in the clinic is friendly, supportive, and understanding. Their office staff is amazing and accommodates each family’s schedule and needs. Our children receive speech, OT, and PT services. Every one of the therapists they have worked with has been wonderful and our children have made incredible progress. The kids also love going to all of their therapy sessions because the therapists make each and every session fun and exciting. We are so fortunate to have found Cheshire Fitness Zone and recommend it to any family looking for services for their children.
Delia Falcon (Special Education Teacher)
“The DMI intensive week was a game changer for my kiddo. I would 100% participate in it again as it gave my girlie a big jumpstart that she needed to engage her core and legs. The difference from Monday to Friday – I mean wow. She went from not being able to lift herself up to being able to sit independently for 2.5 minutes and use her core to stand up straight. She gets stronger everyday as we continue our “homework” and countdown the days until we get to do it again!”
Happy Parent
Cheshire Fitness Zone provides staff at our school that understands the role of related service providers in educational settings, meet the educationally related needs of the students, and communicate well with faculty, staff, and parents. They exhibit a high degree of professionalism and state of the art physical therapy.
Anonymous
I honestly can’t thank you enough for all the time you spent with us and the very valuable advice that you gave.
The Cristo Family
A five star rating would not be enough for Cheshire Fitness Zone! From the first time I called to schedule my son’s consult to now one year later, we are consistently greeted by the most caring and loving staff. My son goes to Cheshire Fitness Zone for oral motor/speech therapy and sees Miss Kim. When I say she is the best, she truly is! From day one she has put her heart and soul into my child’s therapy. The strides my son has made in one year is amazing. Not only is Kim the nicest person ever, she is extremely knowledgeable in her field and is constantly thinking of new ways to improve my son’s speech.
Nicole Rybaruk
Both of our sons have participated in physical, occupational, and speech therapy at Cheshire Fitness Zone. We make the forty minute trek to Cheshire three times per week because the therapists are like none other we have encountered. Our sons (4 and 5 years old) have received therapy since birth and I was so pleased to have found Cheshire Fitness Zone. Both of my kids have been challenged and nurtured by the therapists. They are so amazing with the kids and I am thankful for their dedication.
Katy Blanchette
My son has greatly benefited from OT and PT at Cheshire Fitness Zone. The therapists are so patient and knowledgeable. The facility is also very impressive and fun. We look forward to seeing our son progress as we continue therapy.
Anonymous
As a physical therapist at Cheshire Fitness Zone, I have seen firsthand the positive impact therapy services have had on so many children and their families. We are very family-oriented at Cheshire Fitness Zone and are constantly working with our families to help reach their goals for their children. It is an extremely rewarding feeling to see a child learn mobility skills that they were unable to perform prior to starting therapy services. The staff at Cheshire Fitness Zone is dedicated to providing the best care possible for all the children that they work with.
Anonymous
From the moment you check in at the front desk to your discussion with your therapist at the end of the session, you feel at home, respected, and in great hands. The improvements you will see in your child will say it all.
Melissa Linehan

Request An Appointment With Us Online Today