Walking aids
Ricability provides a comprehensive report on what to look for when choosing a walking frame. From the report -
All walking frames help you walk by giving you something stable to lean on. The main advantage of one with wheels is that you don't have to stop to lift the frame with each step. This means walking is more natural, needs less strength and can be a little faster.
Although using any frame means making some physical effort, many people find that using one means that they go out more often, and on longer trips. A walking frame may be all that you need to keep mobile and independent.
There are over 40 wheeled walking frames on the market. This guide will help you narrow down the choice - the wrong frame could mean that walking is more difficult than it needs to be.
An extract from the Direct Gov website -
Walking aids
If you require temporary support for getting around, the National Health Service (NHS) is responsible for providing ‘personal mobility aids’. People who need long term mobility aids may receive help from their local council.
For temporary walking aids, you will usually need a recommendation from a physiotherapist who will advise on the right equipment for you. Referrals to physiotherapists can come through your:
local hospital
community health service
local health centres
doctor (GP)
Personal mobility aids can include:
walking sticks
Zimmer frames
crutches
other walking aids
Getting walking aids
The NHS provides such equipment on loan. It is not allowed to charge for equipment, but in some cases you may be asked to pay a returnable deposit.
Aids needed for long term use may be obtained via assessment by an occupational therapist from your local social services department. She or he will also be able to advise you about voluntary organisations and private companies that may also be able to help.
Several companies manufacture mobility equipment. An occupational therapist from your local social services department may be able to give you advice about such companies and also voluntary organisations.
Are you looking for 'sexy crutches' ?
How about trying these. Excellent quality and a great range of colours !
Kowsky Ergonomic soft grip crutches.
A review thanks to Christine of yourable -
Since having to use sticks and now crutches due to arthritis and spinal problems I have searched for attractive and comfortable crutches and tried a few different ones. Now I think I've found the 'creme de la creme' of crutches!! They are called Kowsky Ergonomic soft grip crutches and come in a range of colours. The colour is for every piece of the crutch - so no more metallic steel tubes(unless you actually like them!). In fact if you want you can mix colours and have different ones for the cuff, top tubing, grips etc There is access on the website to play about with the colours which is fun to see what different colourways look like.
As well as being really attractive they are the most comfortable crutches I have ever had - there is a choice of two soft grips and I bought the anatomic grip which spreads the load on your hands as I suffer from attacks of Carpal Tunnel, the crutches are light and when adjusted don't click when you walk with them!!! They have a back cuff, half open, which supports your wrist and arm and have a moveable strap which gives freedom of movement but keeps them on your arm.
My attacks of Carpal Tunnel have reduced and my hands do not hurt half as much as previously. I feel that I've wasted money on other pairs of crutches which are not as comfortable or attractive and am very happy with my purple canadian ones!
I'm now saving up for another pair!
Contact info@customcrutches.com
Phone: 01525 370001
I use a pair of the black 'stealth crutches myself (thanks to custom crutches).
The quality and workmanship is second to none and they feel very comfortable.
I use the clip system to change height and it certainly is secure - there is also a secondary tightening ring for added security.
These are my 'formal' crutches though I plan to get a multy-colour pair in the future for when I am in 'party mode'
