Walkers
A Zimmer frame 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 Zimmer frames[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
Usage[edit | edit source]
Zimmer frames 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
