Choosing The Right Walking Aid For You

Choosing the right walking aid can be a stressful and difficult decision. This article will focus on explaining the functions of different walking aids. Helping you understand and make the correct decision in choosing the right walking aid for you.

Why do you need a walking aid?

There is no embarrassment surrounding the use of a walking aid. Many of us need them, whether it is an ongoing condition or you’re recovering from an injury. They're designed to make your life easier, allow more freedom and boost your confidence. Such as walking to the kitchen to make a cup of tea, going on walks with your family, browsing the local high street shops or simply going out into your garden. Check out our mobility aids range for ideas of how to make every-day struggles an easy task.

Choosing the right walking aid for you

It is important to get the right size, fit and equipment to make sure you’re not causing further difficulty. It is wise to seek advice from an expert when you are in need of anything more than a simple stick. Local GPs will provide guidelines and advice to assist you and retail staff in mobility stores can usually provide good recommendations. You may find that you need more than one aid for different purposes.

Walking Sticks

Walking sticks are the most simple and cost-effective walking aid. Two sticks can be used if needed. They can assist with:

• Helping improve balance and stability
• A safer feeling in public places
• Improve the distance you can walk in comfort

Worried about the storage of your walking stick when out and about? Worried it won’t go with your outfit? Check out our folding walking sticks and walking stick bags page to view our range of colours and designs.

Crutches

Crutches allow more stability than sticks and focus on using your arm strength to take the strain off your legs. They can assist with:

• Leg injuries – better suited for temporary use or short periods of time
• Allow you to carry weight on one leg
• Help with balance

Walking Frames

Provide more stability than crutches. Walking frames come with or without wheels. Many people would favour the one with wheels because you don’t have to lift it up every time you want to move. Taking into consideration your intended destinations are important, for example, the wheels would struggle on a gravel path. Walking frames assist with:

• Stability and balance when moving or standing
• Make you feel safer in public places
• Suitable for everyday use and a more permanent solution
• Relief of back and leg pain when walking

Wheelchairs and Scooters

If you simply can’t manage with any of the above suggested walking aids or some of the trips you intend you make would be too long to manage, then you should consider a wheelchair or mobility scooter (make sure you check out the rules and regulations of using powered wheelchairs or scooters).