Accidents happen and age catches up to us. You might not be planning to use a walker, but sometimes, a mobility aid like a walker is the smart choice to make so you can get around without injuring yourself further.
Wondering if you or a loved one needs a walker? If you fit into any of the six scenarios, you may want to consider seeking a walker to improve your movement.
Know the six scenarios
Your doctor recommends it
Research shows that walking is beneficial to your overall health and well-being. People who are diagnosed with medical conditions that impair their mobility should consider a walker. Walkers and other aids can be prescribed by your doctor as a means of support.
Listening to your doctor’s advice is essential, especially when the advice is based on your diagnosis. You might not like it, but it’s for your own good.
When walking becomes painful
If you’re in pain as you move, consider using a walker. Many senior citizens and younger adults alike suffer from walking difficulties. These might be due to conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Post-stroke weakness
Patients who deal with chronic pain may want to consider support aids to help keep them standing and make their daily life easier. If you struggle to move around and complete everyday tasks, a walker might be able to help.
Finding a supportive walker like The Perfect Walker that supports your frame can alleviate unnecessary strain on your ankles, knees, and back. This helps relieve pain and discomfort while helping you move at the same time.
You can’t travel far without support
A huge indicator that you require a walker is when moving distances becomes a strain, especially when regular walking causes discomfort and pain.
You may be unable to rely on either one or both legs. While a wheelchair is commonly used in such cases, a walker offers extra support against strain while increasing mobility. Going through doors or taking a stroll through your neighborhood can be made a lot easier if you have a walker in tow.
You’re prone to falling
According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental injury and deaths globally. Adults above the age of 65 are more at risk to suffer from fatal fall-related injuries, especially if they aren’t being watched. However, there are ways to help.
Environmental modifications, such as getting rid of any sharp object within the surroundings or buffering corners and edges, can reduce the risk of injury if somebody falls. People with conditions such as dizziness, low blood pressure, and neurological conditions like strokes are prone to fall-related injuries more often than not.
Movement aids such as walkers provide protective support to help keep you balanced in case you slip or fall. They also provide a place to adjust your hand for a better grip. Walkers with a wide handle create more stability by focusing your body’s central point of gravity onto your midsection, helping you gain more balance and traction.
You’re recovering from a surgery procedure
Patients who have recently had surgery may notice a slight loss of mobility as they recover. Those with hip and knee implants will experience this to a larger extent. The use of a walker is a common method to help rehabilitate patients regain their mobility. Patients who use physical therapy mobility aids tend to recover much more steadily than individuals than don’t. Investing in a walker is recommended for optimal and smooth recovery.
Using a walker keeps your body upright, which promotes more blood flow to and from your legs. Getting up on your own two feet even while using a walker is a source of motivation itself, especially if the patient has been bedridden for quite some time. With time, your legs will adjust to walking and soon you will get back on your feet.
Your cane doesn’t provide enough support
A cane can be helpful, but holding your cane for a prolonged period of time can affect your muscles, especially since all your weight is shifted to your wrist. Utilizing a walker puts less stress on your hand. The tension on your wrist is erased as both upper arms are supported on a rest.
A walker also provides a comfortable grip to help keep you up, while the wheels move around much more easily. Unlike a cane, a walker promotes good posture as it encourages you to stand straight.
Making the decision
Adjusting to a walker may take some time, but in the end, you’ll be able to navigate your daily life much more easily. Choose the right walker for your needs and enjoy the benefits long-term. The road to better mobility starts with you.