What factors should be considered when choosing a cane or walker?
Update:15-06-2022
Summary:When patients choose crutches or folding walkers aids, they should communicate with professional medical staff to ensure that they choose the walking ...
When patients choose crutches or folding walkers aids, they should communicate with professional medical staff to ensure that they choose the walking aids that are more suitable for them. When choosing to use crutches or a walker, the following questions should be discussed with the patient:
How much weight can this device support?
Walking stick: You can support 25% of your body weight with a walking stick.
Walkers: Some walkers can be used to support 50% of your body weight.
What are the common reasons patients use this device?
Canes: Reasons for using a cane may include: 1. Arthritis (especially in the knees and hips). 2. Mild balance problems. 3. Foot or leg injury.
Walkers: Reasons for using walkers may include: 1. Arthritis (especially in the knees and hips). 2. Moderately severe balance and gait problems. 3. Weakness of the buttocks and legs.
How is the device constructed?
Walking sticks: Walking sticks can be made of wood or aluminum. 1. All walking sticks must have rubber tips. 2. Some have curved, rounded or gripped handles. 3. It can be one foot or three or four feet, the latter can provide a greater level of stability. Walkers are generally made of aluminum, and the handle should have a rubber grip to prevent slipping.
Walkers: There are three types of walkers: 1. Front-wheel walkers (back legs must not slide) 2. Rolling four-wheel walkers (with or without seats) 3. Standard pick-up walkers.
