Different Types of Walkers
There are many types of walkers on the market that all have different purposes. There are walkers with front wheels, walkers with four wheels, standard walkers with no wheels and other types. When selecting a walker, it’s important to know the differences between them and how each can serve you best. In this helpful guide, we’ll take a look at some of the different types of walkers and what purposes they serve in your day-to-day life.
Standard walkers feature two handgrips on either side and rubber caps on the bottom of each foot, as opposed to wheels. These common walkers are great for stability and can be the best walker for balance problems, due to their sturdy design and lack of wheels. They are designed for people whose mobility issues can be handled independently. However, they’re best when used for short distances. They tend to be lightweight and easy to move and often come with other features like additional handgrips for rising or easily foldable designs.
Two-wheel walkers feature rubber caps on the back two legs of the walker and wheels on the front two legs, helping the user during movement. The user must apply weight on the walker while moving, and with the rubber caps on the back legs, the walker won’t move forward without the user moving it. These walkers are great for individuals who can’t pick up their walker, and work very well on flat terrain.
These types of walkers feature four wheels and a design that bears the weight of the user as they rest their knee atop a padded seat. Knee walkers are ideal for individuals recovering from sprains, foot surgery, amputation or another foot or ankle injury or procedure where the user cannot bear weight on it. These walkers can also be a comfortable, more mobile alternative to crutches and can have additional features that make getting around easier.
Rollators, sometimes called four-wheel walkers, are very flexible, although they tend to be more expensive. These types of walkers can feature a variety of accessories and modifications, including seats, baskets, brakes and much more. These types of walkers can help you move faster and more naturally, with comfortable, ergonomic handles and reliable hand brakes. Built-in seats allow for comfort and rest when you need it.
These types of walkers feature two wheels in the back and one wheel up front. They’re similar to four-wheel rollator walkers, as they often have a variety of additional features like hand brakes, a seat, and sometimes baskets or bags attached. Due to the single wheel in front, these walkers are great for easy adjustments and turns, and can provide additional stability.
How Do I Know Which Walker Is Right for Me?
When selecting your walker, it’s important to know your limitations as well as your needs and budget. A rollator might be great for the less-mobile person, but sometimes a standard walker will suffice. Consider how easily you or the individual using the walker can get around, and with the information provided in this guide, match their mobility needs to the walker that’s right to them. Ask your healthcare provider for their advice as well. Easy Comforts provides a variety of useful walkers for everyday needs, so be sure to take a look through our selection.