A walker, also known as a Zimmer frame, is a device that ensures safe and efficient mobility. There are many different types of adult walkers; however, each style features the same fundamental design: approximately waist high in height, slightly wider than the user and roughly a foot in depth.
Walkers are a mobility aid that improves contact with the ground to provide the patient with more support. Use may be temporary: for example, during recovery after you break your leg or foot or following surgery for a hip or knee replacement device.
Your doctor or a physical therapist may also recommend long-term use of a walker: Scenarios range from managing arthritis to a balance problem or improving support as you experience leg weakness or gait issues.
Construction-wise, most adult walkers start with a lightweight, usually adjustable metal frame that’s sized to the user’s height. Each offers four rubber-tipped contact points with the ground. For rolling walkers, two wheels may be added in front. Standard walkers, however, don’t include wheels and need to be picked up between steps. In all cases, this design reduces the amount of weight needing to be placed on the lower body.
Many adult walkers also fold down to conserve space at home or in travel.
Each standard walker, though, will vary slightly. For example, we distribute hemi walkers like this one from Carex for individuals with limited dexterity in one arm or hand. Generally, disabled or elderly individuals will use this device by surrounding their body with the front and sides. Depending upon the type of Zimmer frame supporting the user, an individual holds on to the front, picks it up and places it a short distance ahead on the ground.
For rolling or two-wheeled walkers, the motion becomes a smooth and almost effortless technique. To ensure that you find the best mobility aids for your specific needs, please confer with your medical provider. You should also peruse the product descriptions of our mobility aids, because you will be able to gain more information specific to each type of walker.
Walkers vs. Rollators
Especially in evaluating their choices, some wonder about the differences between walkers and rollators.
While we covered the basic operation of a walker, rollators have wheels attached to all four legs, including a hand brake for control and often include a seat for resting. As a mobility aid, rollators suit those needing less support for their lower half and can walk longer distances or at a brisker pace. Rollators are a long-term mobility solution, as they navigate better over outdoor terrain than traditional walkers.
Product Videos
How to Use a Walker
Video Transcription
The next thing we're going to talk about is how to use a walker. Now, the first thing that I want to say is to adjust the walker to your height. You want about that 15 to 30 degree bend in your elbow. If you look right now, this walker looks a little bit short for me.
But something for you to keep in mind is that the height of your shoe when you're out and about versus in your house and stockings or slippers is going to affect you. If I take off my shoes, this walker is now a more appropriate height for me.
Now when you're using a walker, it's going to help with your balance. What you want to do is you're going to slide the walker forward as your bad leg goes forward. Then you're going to bring your good leg to join it. You're going to slide the walker forward, bring your bad leg forward and then bring your good leg.
One more time, you are going to slide your walker forward and bring your good leg. Slide your walker and bring your good leg.
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