Walking Aids on MEDmarketplace.com

Types of Walking Aids

• Canes - Canes are useful as walking aids if you need assistance walking but have good balance. Proper height and handle style are important considerations for good support from this type of medical equipment. A quad cane, which offers four points of floor contact, is even more stable. The cane should be held on the stronger side of the body while the weight is shifted away from the weaker side.
• Walkers - Walkers as walking aids help if you are easily fatigued or have poor balance. They are made of light aluminum which is exceptionally strong, yet lightweight. If this type of walking aid is not properly sized, you may have trouble moving the walker forward. To compensate, some walkers have adjustable heights or wheels. Choose a folding walker for portability, allowing easy transport in a car and storage.
• Crutches - Available in aluminum or wood, crutches require more strength to use than walkers. Underarm models provide better support, while forearm models can serve with better coordination or arm strength. If improperly sized, they can place needless strength on muscles and nerves.