Sometimes getting around isn’t that easy. An injury, joint pain, or trouble with balance can all limit the motivation to get up and live your life. When your mobility is limited, you can’t move around your home or neighborhood, and it becomes increasingly challenging to stay engaged with the people and things that make life worth living. And because of pride, many avoid using devices that can improve their quality of life by providing the support they need to get around.
If you’re having mobility trouble, you’ve got options. These devices can help you stay active, enjoy your life, and battle against the effects of aging.
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Walking poles are great for people who could use a little bit of stability or better posture. They are essentially ski poles for the street and most commonly used by people trekking through the woods. However, they have are practical to use. They are a good option for people looking to take a little bit of weight off their knees and hips.
A walking stick is another tool that can aid with mobility. Like walking poles, sticks don’t provide a lot of support, but they can help navigate terrain and encourage firm footing. A walking stick may service people with neuropathy or sensory problems in the feet.
Canes can also be helpful in several ways for people with varying levels of mobility problems. Standard U-shaped canes can help with balance but cannot bear much weight. Offset canes have a flat handle and bend outwards, shifting weight from the wrist to forearm if grip strength is an issue. These canes can bear more weight than a standard cane. Tripod canes are also available and are useful for people who have experienced an injury or cannot bear weight on a leg. These canes can typically stand on their own.
Walkers are the most complex and supportive mobility device. They take some getting used to as they will impact the way you walk; however, they can bear all of your weight and offer plenty of support. Some are even equipped with a chair to provide some accessible rest if needed.
All of these options can address a multitude of mobility issues and restore a higher quality of life. Some may take fitting or adjusting, perhaps even a lesson, but after a brief learning curve, you can get back out and lead the life you want to lead.
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
