Medical Equipment Blog


Is a three wheeled walker good for someone with significant mobility problems?

Friday, November 20, 2009

For most people with mild to moderate mobility problems or for those that just need a bit of support while walking a three wheeled walkers is a great option. They are designed to be very easy to maneuver and turn, and they are great for smaller spaces where the larger two or four wheeled square shaped wheeled walkers may be difficult to use.
Three wheeled walkers may not provide enough support for those with very significant mobility problems. Often individuals that will need to take frequent breaks and may have difficulty in body movement may find the additional stability of a two wheeled walker a better option. The best way to decide is to test drive different models of walkers to determine which one works best for the individual. Try them both indoors as well as outdoors to determine the model and type that is most suitable for the patient.
What types of accessories are available for wheeled walkers?
One of the most common accessories for wheeled walkers includes different sizes and types of wheels and glider attachments. Just like any type of tire or wheel the ones on a walker can become old, plus gliders can become rough or even wear through with continual use. Both wheels and gliders are very easy to change out and are low cost accessories for the wheeled walker.
Pouches and tote bags that hook over the cross brace on a folding or wheeled walker can also be a wonderful accessory to help with transporting purses, purchases and other items. These pouches may be covered or open and can have several compartment or pockets for easy organization and storage. Baskets, which are typically wire or durable plastic, provide a solid type of pouch that makes carrying even heavier objects simple and easy. Like the pouches they are designed to hook onto the cross brace of a two and four wheeled walker or a standard folding walker without wheels.
What is a knee walker and what is it used and designed for?
Knee walkers are unique in that they feature a four wheeled type mechanism that is slightly modified. The front wheels are fairly narrow in spacing when compared to a standard walker and the real wheels are very close together. There is a knee height platform that allows the user to rest one leg on the platform, either right or left, while still using the other leg for mobility. A knee wheeled walker replaces the need for crutches that can cause sores, back pain and general discomfort with extended use.
Wheeled walkers such as knee model of walker can also be adjusted to different heights. Just like standard wheeled walkers they have brakes in the hand grips for safety and also are durable, lightweight and easy to transport. Wheeled knee walkers are an important consideration for those recovering from any type of lower leg or foot injury, surgery or other type of mobility problem.

Labels: , , ,


What makes a Rollator walker a good choice in mobility equipment?

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Rollator walkers have an outstanding reputation as walkers that are designed for safety, security and mobility. They are durable and long lasting, plus they are backed by some of the best warranties found in wheeled or folding walkers. In addition Rollator offers a wide range of walker types including two, three and four wheeled options. One of the major advantageous of a Rollator walker is that they are all designed to be very lightweight. Most models are well under 20 pounds and can easily be moved about by most individuals for storage and transportation. What are some key features of Rollator walkers? One key feature that makes a Rollator walker a popular choice is that the walkers are designed to be very durable but also look great and stand up to average wear and tear. They also have various frame colors from blue to teal and red or chrome colors. Upholstery on the flip up seat and backrest will be padded and very durable, providing a comfortable spot to rest if needed. Additional features include wire baskets for carrying items, soft totes and easy to change out wheels. Most models use a loop looking brake that operates similar to a bicycle break. There is also a locking feature that can be engaged when the individual is sitting on the walker or doesn't want to move. Brakes are easily released when movement is required. The walkers are designed to support set weight and height amounts with adjustments between approximately 31 and 36 inches for handlebar height, depending on the specific model and type of Rollator walker. In addition Rollator walker options also come in bariatric models that are wider through the frame, have a wider seat as have a weight limit of up to 350 pounds. These models are also slightly heavier and will weigh approximately 29 pounds to provide the stability necessary for slightly heavier individuals. Are their warranties included for Rollator walkers and what does the warranty cover? In general and based on the specific model of Rollator walker the warranty time will be different on specific components of the walker. Some models have three year warranties on the frame and brakes and one year warranties on all other features of the walker. The knee walker actually has a lifetime limited warranty, and other walkers will have various types of warranties and options. Generally additions and extras to the walker are not covered by warranty. How easy are Rollator walkers to adjust for different sizes of users? Many of the Rollator walker models offer tool free adjustment for height on the handles and the seat. Those that do require tools are still very easy to adjust, tighten and maintain as fasteners are designed to stay tight and not work loose with use. As with any type of mobility device it is recommended that all adjustments be checked on a routine basis and tightened if necessary to prevent any possible safety issues while in use.

Labels: , , ,