Walking aids are helpful for patients who have chronic problems, including hip and knee arthritis, as well as those who have acute injuries, such as ankle sprains and leg fractures. It is important to find which aid will best suit your particular situation.
Here are the 5 main types along with some information about each:
Single-Point Cane: A single-point cane is helpful for conditions where a little bit of extra support can help to alleviate pain and discomfort. A single-point cane is the easiest way to support to the leg, but is not an appropriate option if weight must be completely removed from the extremity.
Quad Cane: A quad cane is a good option for people that need more stability than what is provided from the standard single-point cane can offer, but who do not need the full support of a walker.
Crutches: Crutches allow you to completely remove weight from the extremity – which is necessary in more severe cases, like breaks or sprains. However, crutches do require that the patient have good stability and upper body strength, so they are often not very useful for the elderly. However, crutches can provide both excellent support and freedom for those with ample strength.
Walker: A walker is the most supportive walking aid, but it is also the largest and most difficult to cart around. However, a walker is an excellent option for patients with poor balance or less upper body strength – such as the elderly, which is who most commonly uses them. Another thing to keep in mind is that new walkers have many options and features that can make the device more convenient to use.
Knee Walker: The knee walker is simple to use, and one of the easiest ways to get around safely and quickly without placing any weight on your legs. This is the best option for people that have a hard time using crutches, and don’t want to be slowed down by a walker.
If you think that you might be in need of a walking aid we would be happy to assist you. What I recommend is coming in for a consultation where we will asses your current situation, at which point we can then go over these aids best fits your needs.
Please give us a call at 201-585-7300, or you can also fill out our contact form online and we will get back to you.