How to choose a walker
If you need extra support to walk, but want to maintain your autonomy, the solution may be to use a walker. We will try to explain the different types of walkers, their characteristics and which equipment is most suitable for your situation.
What is a wanderer?
A walker is a metallic piece of equipment (usually aluminum), with four bases to support walking. Recommended for users who still walk and are not dependent on a wheelchair, but need extra help.
The walker allows the user to lean on the metal structure, providing balance and a safe way to rest when needed.
Walkers are normally made of aluminum, as it is a strong metal, but also relatively light; It can support a lot of weight, but it is also easy to move.
TYPES OF WALKERS
While walkers all serve the same basic function, they all have unique features suited to different situations. It's important to know these differences to help you choose the best walker for you.
These are the most common types of walkers and their characteristics.
Fixed walkers have four anti-slip tips; Suitable for users who require a lot of support and assistance when standing and walking, and are suitable for short distances.
The foldable walker can be closed (folded) so that it can be easily transported. Most walkers can be folded, so they can be transported in the trunk of the car.
Walkers with non-slip tips, rather than wheels, like the one pictured above, make the walker slower to walk, as the user needs to lift the walker as they walk.
However, these walkers provide the best support, as the structure cannot move alone, unlike equipment with wheels.
Some walkers have two front wheels, making it easier to move around on difficult surfaces. Most of them have 12cm wheels, allowing them to glide easily on the ground.
4-wheel walkers are also made of aluminum, but the presence of wheels on all bases makes them very easy to push. They are also very versatile, as they generally include a seat so that the user can sit when they have to wait or need to rest. However, they are the least stable option and are not suitable for users who require a lot of support, as it is necessary to control the walker's movement using brakes on the handles.
Wheels
The wheels are generally between 15 and 20cm in diameter. Essentially, the bigger the wheels, the easier it is to push the walker. This choice becomes particularly important when used on uneven floors, where larger wheels provide greater comfort.
HOW TO ADJUST THE WALKER TO THE CORRECT HEIGHT
It is important that the walker is at the appropriate height for your height. Most walkers can be adjusted in height.
To calculate the correct height, you must lean against the walker (between your wrists), with your back straight and your elbows slightly bent.
If your wrists are too high, you may experience back and neck pain, and if they are too low, you will have to adopt a bent posture, which may also cause lower back pain.
The height may need to be adjusted to suit the walker and the way they walk. Ideally, you should always maintain an upright posture, although this is not always possible.
Although most walkers only allow you to adjust the handles, there are models that also allow you to adjust the height of the seat, which is important to ensure that you can get up safely from the seat, with your feet firmly on the ground.
USE THE WALKER SAFELY
Like any other mobility equipment, walkers can cause injuries if used or maintained incorrectly.
If the non-slip tips on the walker are worn, or if part of the metal is visible, replace them (we have tips available in various sizes in our stores).
If the walker has a seat, ensure that the brakes are applied (generally by ensuring that the brake handles are fixed by pulling them upwards). If the brakes are not applied, the user could easily fall when sitting down.
WHICH WALKER IS MOST SUITABLE FOR MY NEEDS
People use walkers for a variety of reasons. They can be used for a short period of time, after surgery or injury, for an hour a day to avoid excessive tiredness, or on a regular basis as a result of mobility difficulties.
Before choosing a walker, you should consider how and where you plan to use it.
In cases of lack of balance and where you need equipment that supports a lot of your weight, a fixed or foldable walker is the best option. If the user can support most of their weight, but only needs some support, and would like additional features such as a seat and storage space, then they may prefer a 4-wheel walker.
Reevaluate your needs regularly
Mobility needs may change, and it is important to reassess your needs regularly. Below are some signs that the equipment you are using is not suitable for your needs:
- If you can no longer walk the same distance with the assistance of the walker
- Signs of tiredness after a short period of use
- Signs of instability when using the walker
- Signs of pain or discomfort after using the walker