The methodology
Inside a three-sided grid cage, the therapist attaches elastic bungee cords and a belt to suspend and support the child. The cords can unweight the body for safety or add resistance for strength — adjusted move by move.
Method · Spidercage
Spidercage.
A three-sided cage strung with elastic cords and a support belt — dynamic suspension and resistance that let a child practise new movements safely, like play.
What it is & why
Spidercage, in plain terms.
The Spidercage — a Universal Exercise Unit (UEU) — is a three-sided cage with elastic bungee cords and belts that supports the child while they practise balance and strengthening with correct alignment.
Why we use it. The cage lets a child safely produce new movements against graded elastic resistance — strength and balance training that feels like play.
Strengthens muscles safely
Improves balance & alignment
Practise new movements independently
Playful, motivating motor work
The how & the why
The how, and the why.
Why it helps
Suspension lets a child work at the edge of their ability without fear of falling, while the elastic resistance builds strength, balance and coordination — turning rehab into engaging, play-based practice.
Candidacy
Is Spidercage right for my child?
Which children benefit?
Children with neurological challenges working on balance, strength and new movement skills — the cage makes ambitious practice safe.
Is it scary for my child?
The suspension is supportive and reassuring — most children quickly enjoy the freedom to move. Everything is graded by a trained therapist.
How do we track progress?
Against strength, balance and movement goals — see assessment & tracking.
"The cage gives a child the safety to try the thing they couldn't yet do — and that's where breakthroughs happen."
— Lead physiotherapist, Apexa QLA
Part of The ORCA Method
Every method at Apexa is one instrument in a larger whole — see how the Spidercage fits the overall ORCA architecture.
Part of one architecture
Spidercage inside the ORCA Method.
The Spidercage works at its best inside the ORCA structure — applied at the right time, for the right goal, alongside the rest of the plan for your child.