Assistive walking devices- get to know them!

One of the nine healthy habits of the oldest living humans on Earth is walking several miles a day. However, some people have health issues getting in their way, of which can be improved by finding the right assistive walking device.

There are many factors when choosing an assistive walking device that should be discussed with not only your doctor, but a physical therapist as well- your height, gait, posture, strength, etc. (Note that only a professional eye can really guide you correctly in your choice.)

So, let’s get to know the different types of assistive walking devices.

Walking Poles, a walking device used for exercising.

Originally used in the hiking and climbing industry for many years, walking poles are a great way to strengthen your body, enhance your gait, stability, posture, and balance. This form of assistive walking device will possibly improve your walking and strengthen your muscles for fall prevention.

If you are 65 or older (or really anybody at any age), and do not have physical issues, I highly recommend that you purchase these. In fact, I found a great article from REI explaining how to properly use walking poles; what to look for when buying them. Plus, other good tidbits of information (such as the correct height of the pole, material type, etc.)

The Cane, an assistive walking device for smaller health issues.

Probably the oldest assistive walking device known to mankind is the cane. It has been helping people feel a little safer and stronger when walking throughout the centuries. It even has been considered a fashion statement over time!

However, did you know that there is a correct way and a wrong way to use a cane? I found a good article by verywellhealth.com explaining, in detail here, but I will give you some of the highlights:

When standing, hang your arm down straight, your wrist should fall at the level of the top of the cane. When holding your cane, your elbow should be bent about 20 degrees. You should not be feeling any pain in your shoulder or arm.

How to walk properly with a cane on a flat surface:

1. Hold the cane in the hand on your unaffected side to provide support to the opposite lower limb.
2. Advance the cane and affected leg simultaneously.
3. Lean your weight through the arm holding the cane as needed.
4. Always have the unaffected (stronger) lower limb assume the first full weight-bearing step on level surfaces.

When walking up and down a set of stairs with a cane:

1. Keep the cane stationary as you step up with your strong (unaffected) leg.
2. Then, lift up onto the step the cane and your affected together.
3. When walking down stairs, lower your affected leg and the cane down a step.
4. Once your cane and foot are firmly down on the step, place some weight on the cane and lower your good leg down.

The Walker, when walking is very difficult for someone.

Patented in 1953, the first “walking aid” device looked a lot different than the numerous styles of walkers today.

Nowadays the walkers have gotten really fancy with bigger storage, a seat, hand brakes, and for those who are tall, arm rest extensions to assist with posture, strength, and vision line.

As with the cane, there is a proper way to use a walker and an improper way.

1. Be sure that you can stand straight with your two hands on the walker handles.
2. You should not rest your forearms on the walker when walking.
3. You should be on the inside of the walker, meaning the back two legs of the walker should be level with the back’s of your feet.
4. Practice with a Physical Therapist!

The first kind of walker (one with only two wheels at the front) is what you see in the image above and is better if you have a slower pace. If you have a faster pace or a longer stride, the kind with four wheels might be a better fit for you. Your physical therapist is the best person to ask for assistance when considering the purchase of one.

In conclusion, walking is one of the best exercises you can do.

And for those with physical health issues, many rely on the assistance of canes and walkers. It is important you understand your needs- whether you want to strengthen your walking ability (walking poles), need minimal assistance due to an injury or arthritis (a cane), or need extra support because of a major health issue (a walker). But, by all means, never stop walking if you can help it!

-Courtney