Walking frames improve balance and stability, and can support the weight of the user. Walking frames require enough strength in the upper body to safely pick up the walker, place it in front of the body and step towards it. Some designs have wheels on all four or just two legs, which help to conserve energy as the walker does not have to be lifted. However if the user places too much of their body weight on a wheeled walker it may roll away, leading to a fall.
Walkers with seats are especially useful for people who need regular rest breaks when walking due to fatigue or pain. Often a basket is also fitted under the seat for storage. Walkers with seats are ideal for people with high levels of functioning who walk long distances and need only minimal weight bearing.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Walkers with seats can significantly improve a person’s ability to move independently within the community environment and participate in daily activities. Some disadvantages of walkers are that they are difficult to move through doorways and crowded areas, and generally cannot be used on stairs, therefore an assessment of the workplace is recommended to ensure safety and maximise independent mobility.
Walkers also reduce normal arm swing and may result in abnormal posture while walking. A health professional should be consulted prior to using a walker, to ensure the most appropriate walker is prescribed. See below for more information regarding appropriate health professionals:
The wheels of seated walkers usually have a braking system that is controlled with the hands. The hand controls may need to be modified for people with one-sided weakness or arthritis. Other accessories may also be added to modify the function of the walker such as adding a walking stick holder to allow a walking stick to be carried on the frame, carry baskets, and plastic trays to assist carrying light items such as food or paperwork.
For information regarding other types of walking aids please see the links below:
References
Independent Living Centre NSW 2009, Wheeled walking frames with seat, Independent Living Centre NSW, Sydney, viewed 10 June 2011, http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au/minor_groups/187/grid/1.
Pedretti, L. 2001, Occupational Therapy : practice skills for physical dysfunction, Mosby, St Louis.
Sloan, H.L., Haslam, K. & Foret, C. 2001, ‘Teaching the use of Walkers and Canes’, Home Healthcare Nurse, vol. 19, no. 4, pp. 241-246.
Trombly, C.A. & Radomski, M.V. 2002, Occupational Therapy for Physical Dysfunction, 5th edn, Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia.
Van Hook, F.W., Demonbreun, D. & Weiss, B.D. 2003, ‘Ambulatory Devices for Chronic Gait Disorders in the Elderly’, American Family Physician, vol. 67, no.8, pp.1717-1724.