Ultimate guide to Walking Frames: Improve your life

Walking frames, also called zimmer frames are typically used for indoor use and have feet rather than wheels. They are extremely useful in aiding support and stability for balance issues often found in Parkinson’s Disease.

To find the right one you need to consider several factors such as:

Balance, strength, posture and height and overall mobility; we will look at these considerations in more detail below.

• Balance

Stability issues are important as you need to consider how much weight bearing and type of balance support you need from your walking frame. To ensure your stability and steadiness, it is also important to walk within the frame base and not to push the walker too far ahead.

• Strength

Ergonomic design means that holding the walker at the sides is much easier. A frame with forearm troughs is worth considering as it is more beneficial for those with little strength to sit and rise more safely.

• Posture and height

If its anything like my husband, his posture has changed. He is a tall man but has developed a ’rounded’ hunched back and walks with a stoop. When choosing the right frame it is important to think about having one with adjustable height. Parkinson’s Disease typically changes the body and gait

Standard walking frame

A classic style of walking frame does not have wheels but have rubber ferrules on the feet. Using a walking frame without wheels requires you to lift the frame with each step as you walk. Weight of the frame is therefore is a hugely important consideration if strength is a factor. Look at the list of pros and cons and consider what is right for you.

Pros:

• Offers more stability as you can lean on the frame without it moving
• Can use on uneven flooring as you lift the frame when walking
• Better for balance issues as more secure

Cons:

• Limited maneuverability due to lack of movement
• Use a lot of energy and strength as you have to lift it to move
• Slows walking pace

Many walking frames are height adjustable; this is an important consideration for someone with Parkinson’s Disease as height I found, may need to be adjusted over time as the illness progresses. A walking frame not adjusted to the correct height can cause extreme discomfort, instability, pain and increase chance of accidents.

How to make sure the height is correct for a walking frame

To make sure the walking frame is safely at the correct height. The person using it should stand within the frame surround. Having the hands at the side, the handles of the frame should reach the wrists.

When walking with the frame the person should be able to walk as upright as possible with the arms only slightly bent at the elbow.

Width of the frame should also be a factor in enabling support without being restrictive and not too wide that are placed too far apart that it is uncomfortable.

A tip worth noting when considering the width of the frame is to also check the width of your doors within the home against the width of the frame. Walking frames come in various widths.

Wider frames do offer more stability, however it is no good if it is too wide for your doorways and hallway! A narrow frame may be better in this case. There is a huge selection of narrow frames out there to choose from.

Walking frame with wheels

Another option when considering which type of walking frame you want is one with wheels at the front legs. If lifting a standard walking frame is too hard for you and you need more help in bearing weight as you move then this is an option worth considering.

It can be easier to stand more upright with a wheeled walker than a standard one. If posture is an issue then a wheeled walker can improve your gait and lower the risk of falls.

Pros:

• You do not have to lift a wheeled walker
• Improves posture
• reduces chance of falls
• Can conserve energy as only needs to be pushed forward

Cons:

• Less stable as wheels move forward when leaning into the frame
• only suited to level floors without steps
• Cannot lean on the walker as it will move if you are tired

The correct footwear is an important consideration. Non slip slippers to reduce chance of falling. No matter what walking frame you choose and is right for you. It is also important and ensure that obstacles are not in the way.

Where do I start looking for a walking frame

Before deciding on a walking frame it is recommended that you are referred for a full assessment from a physiotherapist and Occupational Therapist. You can ask your GP for a referral. They will undertake a fully personalised assessment to ensure that you have the correct size, weight and height frame. Most NHS services will provide you with a free walking frame for your needs.

Where to buy

There are also a range of mobility stores that stock a wide range of walking frames. It is worth going to a reputable company who have a wealth of experience and knowledge in order to get the right one for your needs.

I highly recommend that you discuss your needs before you buy and have further questions or needs that you need to clarify before you decide to buy. Remember to claim your VAT relief at 20% making it a seamless task.

A basic standard walking frame is definitely worth looking at. It is lightweight aluminium making it easier to lift and move, height adjustment and comes in at a competitive price.

A look at narrow walking frames that are well made and sturdy and ideal for small areas are particularly useful if you have narrow hallways and doorways.

If you are considering a wheeled walker which also come with a narrow frame option then you can find them at any reputable mobility store. Wheeled frames are useful for moving along safely without need to lift.

Armed with the correct information and recommendations to suit your needs you will be able to find a walking frame that will be right for you.

Walking Frame Accessories

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