It is vital that you obtain the right walking aid for you and your circumstances. You also need to know how to use the walking aid properly and safely. A physiotherapist can ensure that this happens. There are some key factors that need to be considered: aidingyour walking pattern in terms of speed and evenness of stride. The equipment may also help maintain an upright body posture The correct use of a walking aid is not always as straightforward as it seems. The ‘usual’ way of using an aid may need to be adapted to suit you and your particular condition or circumstances. If you, or the person you care for, have reduced cognitive functioning, it may also be more difficult to learn, or remember how to use a walking aid.

Remove all loose rugs, trailing flexes and clutter from the floor. Keep your access routes around the house clear at all times

Pressure brakesThese are operated by downward pressure on a spring-loaded frame. This causes the motion of the rear wheels to be interrupted when the user is leaning on the frame. However, they may not be suitable for users who cannot push down heavily enough on the frame or for heavier users who may apply the brakes permanently Induction to NRS Integrated Community Equipment Service (currently held virtually via Microsoft Teams) The troughs and handgrips can be adjusted to find the most suitable and comfortable position. Alternatively, some walkers have a platform rather than individual gutter rests on which to rest the forearms and a vertical handgrip.

Trolleys are available with one or two shelves; the bottom shelf is sometimes recessed to give greater space for your legs when stepping forwards. Some trolleys have removable trays which may help when transferring items or cleaning the tray. The handgrip adjusts along the upright side of the crutches and should be set at a height level with the protruding bone at the side of the wrist. Pneumatic wheels will require pumping up from time to time, but provide more suspension than solid rubber tyres. If you have painful hands that may be aggravated by jarring you may find this an advantage.The overall height of axilla crutches can be adjusted. This should be measured by standing upright in appropriate and supportive footwear. The underarm pad should fit under the armpit with two finger widths of space above to ensure no pressure is applied through the armpit when the crutches are being used. Walking equipment should not be used in wet floor areas. If you need to access a wet room or shower area, ask the advice of an occupational therapist. You may be able to install grab rails. you also know how to counteract any possible long-term change it may make to your body, for example exercises and your positioning when at rest. Phone the hospital switchboard: 020 8546 7711 and ask for the Duty Chaplain, we are available 24 hours per day 7 days a week. Learning Disability Liaison Service For older adults and anyone living with a long-term health condition, the bathroom can be a hazardous place for slips and falls. Fortunately, there are precautionary steps everyone can take to minimise the risks of falls in the bathroom. Continue reading