Walking frames as aids for people with mobility difficulties
Rigid walking frames provide older people and those with reduced mobility with stable support for their daily movements. They help people with mobility difficulties regain a degree of independence. For individuals purchasing a walking frame due to balance issues, following a fall, or after surgery, such a model helps them regain confidence. Walking frames provide more support than a walking stick or crutches. What’s more, they are not as bulky as a wheelchair. Furthermore, these walking aids can help users regain their independence when walking. They are therefore an essential tool for maintaining your autonomy.
Who are walking frames suitable for?
These four-legged metal frames make it easier for users to get about. They are used by older people, those recovering from illness and people with disabilities. Medical walking aids help to prevent the risk of falls both indoors and outdoors, without the need for assistance from a third party. Older people and those with reduced mobility are perfectly supported by this type of walking aid, with support at the front and sides. These mobility aids, with their sturdy frames, are suitable for indoor use and for short distances outdoors. They can also be used on a long-term basis to support people as they age or who have a permanent mobility impairment. Furthermore, walking frames are useful aids for regaining mobility and maintaining a secure footing, for example following hip surgery. Many older people also purchase these walking frames when walking and standing up are no longer second nature to them. Thanks to their four legs and robust metal frame, this type of walking aid is very stable and therefore also proves useful as a standing aid.
Why use a walking frame?
Walking frames are also known to users by the names ‘walking crutch’, ‘walking frame’ or ‘support frame’. They can be used in cases of temporary loss of mobility in the lower limbs. Furthermore, walking frames are also used in movement therapy and medical rehabilitation. This is because these walking aids enable independent walking even when there is little strength in the legs or feet. Walking frames also support the development of the muscles of the lower limbs. A walking frame can also be a solution for those with impaired coordination. It also offers people at high risk of falling a sense of security, enabling them to go about their daily lives without the support of relatives or carers.
How do walking frames work?
For patients or older people who wish to use a walking frame, it is useful to know how to handle it. The handles or struts on a walking frame provide users with support whilst walking and standing up. The special shape and the spacing between the frame bars allow them to take steps without fear of falling, as long as they can hold the handles firmly. Once both legs have been placed in front, the entire walking frame is lifted up in front of the user. It is important that users have enough strength to lift the entire frame and move it step by step in the direction of travel. This action is repeated until the desired destination is reached. Thanks to the support provided by a walking frame, sensitive joints are protected. Individuals lacking the strength to lift the frame can opt for a model with two front wheels, enabling the walking frame to be pushed forward to some extent.
What types of walking frames are available?
In our online shop, interested customers can browse our range of rigid, adjustable and foldable walking frames. Their weight capacity depends on the specific model. Our product range is designed for people with various mobility impairments.
- Rigid aluminium walking frames: These models support patients during standing and walking exercises. The rubber caps on the legs ensure excellent slip resistance. These frames are height-adjustable and can therefore be adapted to suit individual users. Thanks to the four points of support, users find a secure footing. Depending on the model, these walking frames can be folded at the touch of a button. With these walking frames, you can remain mobile even at home.
- Articulated walking frames: These aluminium products, featuring two support legs, have joints and are therefore ideal for safe walking practice. Walking frames with joints are easier to manoeuvre, as users can move forwards by alternately moving both sides of the walking aid. Rubber caps on the legs prevent slipping. Thanks to height adjustment, these frames can be adapted to suit individual users. Another advantage is that our walking frames can be folded at the touch of a button.
- Travel walkers: Our comfortable travel walkers are sturdy and fit through any door. They can be folded in a single movement and are ready for use again straight away. These lightweight walking aids can be taken on board the aeroplane as hand luggage. Their front legs have been replaced by wheels, so the walking aid only needs to be lifted slightly. It is worth noting that our extremely sturdy walking frames do not tip over even when you let go of them.