Approximately 6.1 million adults use mobility devices, which include medical equipment like walkers, canes, and crutches. Since two-thirds of these individuals are 65 or older, it’s expected that even more individuals will use assistive devices for walking proportionate to the anticipated increase in the aging population. If you are one of the millions of Americans who use one of these mobility aids, or if you plan to use a walker as a part of your recovery process at any age, read the following tips to ensure the safest and most efficient use of your walker.
1. First and most importantly, speak to a local durable medical equipment provider in order to discuss your specific needs. An expert who is familiar with the wide variety of mobility devices can help you to pick from their extensive inventory. Using a walker which is not suited to your specifications will not only be unsafe, but it could lead to further problems!
2. Start with your weaker leg when walking and start with your stronger leg when stepping up onto a curb. Do the opposite when you are stepping down from a curb, putting your weaker leg down first. These tricks are easy to confuse, but one way to remember them is to think of the phrase, “Up with the good, down with the bad.”
3. Don’t lean over your walker while moving. Since it is shorter than you, it may be difficult to acclimate to keeping your back straight. However, standing upright with your walker will help prevent back injuries. If you find it difficult to walk without bending forward, consider adjusting your walker’s height so that it better suits your measurements.
Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right or especially if you are sore after using your walker, contact the durable medical equipment provider who supplied the walker to make sure that you are using it correctly. They will help you make the best use of your mobility device!
