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The choice of walking aid depends on the person, their mobility and their fitness condition. Walking aids can be of great benefit to:
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People with injuries on one or both legs where the person has to reduce the weight that bears on that injury e.g. severe sprains, fractures, or following surgery or amputation.
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People who experience pain in any weight-bearing joint due to injury or disease.
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People with reduced balance due to general debility, injury or disease.
Walkers
Walkers or “rollators” are designed to assist people who are still able to walk to some extent but have problems with balance or distance.
Walkers with loop hand lever brakes are suitable for users still able to walk with assistance. The brakes are applied by squeezing or can be locked in by depressing. Push-down brake walkers are more suited to users who are unable to walk continuously even with support or who 'shuffle' when they walk.
Crutches
They provide excellent bilateral support for people who have non-weight bearing ability (they can hop on their good leg) or partial weight bearing ability. A certain amount of skill and dexterity is needed to use crutches safely.
Walking Canes
There are many styles of canes available and again, the choice of canes will depend on the persons condition and their personal preference.
Walking stick designs available include:
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Single point sticks - the most common, usually made of wood or aluminium
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3-point (tripod) and four point (quad) sticks - ideal for those who need more support.
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The tripod and quad stick designs are used by people who require additional support (i.e. due to poor balance). Depending on the person's disability, either one or two sticks may be used.
Walking Frames
Walking frames offer more support with their larger base area and are available in fixed, adjustable and folding designs. Optional accessories include wheels (or castors) plus glide brakes which make the frames easier to move, but care must be taken when using them.
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