Walkers: Difference between revisions

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*"Square" wheels  
*"Square" wheels  
*Ability to be folded, which makes travelling with the frame easier
*Ability to be folded, which makes travelling with the frame easier
*Trays, seats and baskets may be attached
*Other modifications such as a light that projects a red line on the ground in order to guide step length in individuals with [[Parkinson's Disease - Clinical Presentation|Parkinsons]]


== Usage  ==
== Usage  ==


Walkers should be adjustable in height, which is measured in the same way as one would measure for a walking stick. A Zimmer frame is used in the following way. The patient:  
Walkers should be adjustable in height, which is measured in the same way as one would [[Canes|measure for a walking stick]]. A Zimmer frame is used in the following way. The patient:  


*Picks it up  
*Picks it up  
*Moves it forwards  
*Moves it forwards  
*Places it in front of them  
*Places it in front of them  
*Leans on the frame, taking weight through the upper limbs)
*Leans on the frame, taking weight through the upper limbs  
*Walks into it (the patient should be encouraged to take two small, even steps to avoid a disordered [[gait]] pattern)<div class="researchbox">  
*Walks into it (the patient should be encouraged to take two small, even steps to avoid a disordered [[gait]] pattern)<div class="researchbox">  
   
   

Revision as of 06:00, 1 February 2019

Introduction[edit | edit source]

A walker is a walking aid that has four points of contact with the ground and usually has three sides with the side closest to the patient being open. It provides a wider base of support than a walking stick and so is used more to stabilise patients with poor balance.

Variations of Walkers [edit | edit source]

  • Wheels on all four legs, with or without brakes
  • Two front legs with two rear casters
  • Two front legs and two rear wheels with brakes which operate on downward pressure on the wheels
  • "Square" wheels
  • Ability to be folded, which makes travelling with the frame easier
  • Trays, seats and baskets may be attached
  • Other modifications such as a light that projects a red line on the ground in order to guide step length in individuals with Parkinsons

Usage[edit | edit source]

Walkers should be adjustable in height, which is measured in the same way as one would measure for a walking stick. A Zimmer frame is used in the following way. The patient:

  • Picks it up
  • Moves it forwards
  • Places it in front of them
  • Leans on the frame, taking weight through the upper limbs
  • Walks into it (the patient should be encouraged to take two small, even steps to avoid a disordered gait pattern)

References[edit | edit source]


  • Hollis, M. (1994). Practical exercise therapy. Blackwell Science. ISBN 0632024771