Walking aids and mobility
If you have problems walking or feel a bit unsteady on your feet, then it might be a good idea to look into getting some form of walking aid. Walking aids will help keep you mobile, reduce your risk and anxiety of falling and give you more confidence when moving around. Ask your GP or speak to a physiotherapist about getting a walking stick or another aid that suits your needs.
Walking aids are most helpful when they have been matched to your needs, so it’s a good idea to get one of your own, rather than use someone else’s. There are a variety of options available – from walking sticks to frames – make sure that you get advice on which of these is right for you.
Walking equipment/aids help:
- provide greater stability and balance by providing a wider support base
- facilitate your walking pattern in terms of speed and evenness of stride
- help maintain an upright body posture
- increase your confidence in your walking ability
- redistribute your weight – take some of the weight off your leg(s) which may help reduce pain in the joints, muscles and ligaments
Common walking aids include:
- walking stick
- zimmer frame
- triangular Frame/Delta walker
- 4 wheeled walker
- elbow crutches
- quad stick/tripod
Once you have a walking aid, it’s important to make sure that it stays in good condition. If it gets worn or you have any other problems make sure you get it fixed right away – your local physiotherapy service should be able to help you.
Further support
- DLF is a national charity providing impartial advice, information and training on independent living. It has produced a very useful factsheet on choosing walking equipment – visit the DLF website for more information
- Local physiotherapy services