Finding the right type of walking aid will help you along the way. Which type is needed is based on several factors. A physical therapist can make a recommendation that suits your needs. They will assess your gait, balance, cognition, cardiovascular fitness, musculoskeletal challenges, and any neurological conditions. If you have had an injury, you may need a walking aid that matches your weight-bearing status.
You may also benefit from an occupational therapy assessment of your living area and work environment. Different walking aids may be needed if there are stairs you must negotiate, as well as your mode of transport (car, public transportation, etc.) A combination of different types may be recommended for different purposes.
Many people may resist using walking aids because they are not convenient or they feel a stigma attached to needing one. However, they have been shown to reduce fall injuries.
Be sure to know which hand to hold the cane with. The general rule is you hold the cane with the hand on your strong side and move the cane at the same time as your weaker leg.
Canes and walking sticks come in a wide variety of designs. However, they do need to be sized correctly and have a grip that you are comfortable using.
Using crutches takes getting used to, but a few simple steps can help you get around. If you have been treated for an injury or had surgery, be sure to get instructions or training before you leave the facility. Your crutches need to be fitted for the correct height, and there are several tricks to using them safely.
The standard walker must be lifted and moved with each step. For those with limited upper body strength, walkers may have wheels or glides on two or all four legs so it can slide between steps rather than needing to be picked up. Walkers with four wheels are called rollators and will often have a brake of some type for safety, as well as a seat so that you can take a rest when you are tired.
