Using Walking Aids May Support Better Rehab
By Tom Herrin
There are plenty of times in which people are in need of some kind of aid due to the fact that they have an injury that interferes with walking. It is pretty common and seems to happen to everyone at one time or another. Accidents can happen anytime and are just about never expected. When they do occur, people are often in need of something that can help them to get around as efficiently as possible. The right kind of walking aid can help make this happen. Knowing how to correctly use them is a big part of successful recovery.
Different Kinds of Aids Serve Different Purposes
Most people are aware of the various kinds of walking aids. Crutches may be the most familiar. Everyone has seen someone walk on them, and most people have given them a try as well. They may be the best kind of aid to use when someone wants to keep most or all of their weight off of a given part while still having the ability to move around.
A cane is another form of aid. It has been seen for years. Many people likely view it as something used by the elderly. This may be true in some cases, but a cane may also be used by those recovering from injuries and attempting to regain more use of the injured part.
The other type of aid seen often today is the walker. It may be used to help people with bigger balance issues as well as problems affecting the lower body.
Walkers Can Take a Lot of Load
When people have fairly significant lower body injuries, the use of a walker may make all the difference. The traditional idea of a walker is something that is used by the elderly once they are unable to walk independently. While this can be true also, those who have had surgeries or have lower body injuries that require some way of keeping much of the weight off of it may find using walkers a good way to begin that healing process. When they use the walker, they either lift it or roll it as they shift weight. With so many points in contact with the ground, a walker is generally pretty stable.
Learn and Plan Ahead
It is a good idea for us to keep some kind of walking aid around the house. If we do, and we help each family member learn how to use them correctly, we will have them in case of a sudden need. Another thing that can be done is to do a safety check at home. Removing anything that could cause slips or trips may save us from times in which we need to use those aids.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Goleta, Calif.