Mobility Aids for Physiotherapy Patients: Choosing the Right Equipment

Mobility Aids: Complete Selection Guide

Mobility aids support safe movement during recovery. Choosing the right aid prevents falls, protects surgical repairs, and accelerates progress.

Types of Mobility Aids

1. Walkers

• Standard (no wheels): Maximum stability for post-surgical, severe balance problems
• Wheeled (2 front wheels): Easier to move, good for some upper body strength
• Rollator (4 wheels with seat): Most mobile, community walking

2. Crutches

• Axillary (underarm): Most common, good for non-weight-bearing
• Elbow/Forearm (Loftstrand): More maneuverable, preferred for long-term use

3. Canes

• Single-point: Least support, most mobility, mild balance problems
• Quad-point: More stable, can stand independently, moderate balance problems

4. Wheelchairs

• Manual: Self-propelled or attendant-propelled
• Transport: Small wheels, attendant-propelled
• Power: Electric motor for limited upper body function

Correct Sizing Guide

| Aid | Correct Height | |-----|---------------| | Walker | Floor to wrist crease, elbows 20-30 deg | | Axillary crutches | 2-3 fingers below armpit, handle at wrist | | Forearm crutches | Handle at wrist level | | Cane | Floor to wrist crease, elbows 15-20 deg |