AN EXERCISE machine is benefiting patients like Elaine Glaister thanks to the generosity of Witney residents.

The £4,350 Motomed Movement Therapy machine is being used by up to five patients a day at Witney Community Hospital.

It is one of two machines of its type in the county, and was paid for by the hospital’s League of Friends, Mrs Glaister, 81, of Witney, was transferred to the hospital two weeks ago after being treated at Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital for a month for a chest infection.

She also suffers from Parkinson’s Disease, and uses the wheelchair machine once a day to increase strength in her legs while she is immobile.

She said: “It’s marvellous. It helps strengthen my leg muscles and I can feel it working.

“I’m pleased it’s here.”

Husband Peter Glaister, 80, said: “It’s very helpful. You can don’t have to use all of your energy as the machine does it for you.

“The benefit of it is that when you are very weak, you can still exercise because the machine is doing the exercising for you.

“I would imagine it’s also good for people who have had artificial hips. I have had one and it was hard work on the bike.”

The machine, which was donated to the hospital five months ago, can be used to exercise both the arms and legs and the level of resistance can be changed.

Physiotherapist Soo Yeo said: “The reason why this machine is unique is it’s like an exercise bike but it’s specifically designed for wheelchair users.

“It can be used for neurological patients, like those who have suffered a stroke, or for anything to do with muscle strengthening.

“The machine moves on its own so people with weaker arms or legs don’t need a lot of power to begin exercising.

“When you are exercising, the most important thing is to breathe deeply, and in that way you can help towards preventing a chest infection.

“This keeps people active and mobile.”

The machine is also set up so that family and friends can help patients to exercise, freeing up nursing staff.

Doreen Foggett, chairman of the Witney Community Hospital League of Friends, said the machine was bought after staff told the charity what they needed.

She said: “It’s all down to local people in Witney and the surrounding villages who support us with our fundraising events.

“It’s their money and we spend it as wisely as we can.”

witney@oxfordmail.co.uk