If You Have It, Learn How to Use It Correctly
By Tom Herrin
There is a good chance that more people than not have some kind of walking aid around their homes. It is likely due to the fact that someone has received an injury in the past that has necessitated the use of one. A lot of the time, one is stored away in a closet for use at a later time. After that first initial experience, too many times there is no other thought given to it until someone has the unfortunate opportunity because of a turned ankle, an issue with a knee, or some other thing that limits their ability to get around.
All Walking Aids Are Not the Same
Most people have seen someone using a walking aid. Crutches are probably the most common. They are mostly used when someone needs to keep most of their weight off of a given injured part while still allowing them to move around at some ease.
A cane is another familiar device. Even though many people may associate a cane with older people, that is not entirely the case. Many people use them as they attempt to add weight back onto a part that had been injured but is now healing.
A walker may be the most substantial device available. They are designed to support a significant amount of weight. With four points in contact with the ground, they do not require balancing as much as the other two types.
A Walker Can Help Prevent More Injuries
People often use a walker when they have injuries of the lower body such as the hip or knee. They can shift more of their weight on the walker without fear of it giving way. They may be able to use it to help them rise from a sitting position as well as walk. There are a variety of types to meet different needs. Some roll and some now help people to stand up completely when using them. This can help avoid the slumping that so many people tend to end up doing. As they walk, they may be able to roll, or scoot, it so that they never have to completely break contact with the floor or ground.
Practice Can Pay Off
If you have a walking aid at home, get it out and let the entire family learn how to use it correctly. This can make everyone better prepared if the time comes in which they need to use it. Another good practice is to get everyone involved in making a good safety check of the home to be sure to remove anything that could create a possible hazard for tripping or slipping. A little preparedness can go a long way.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Plano, Tex.