WHAT IS A KNEE WALKER?
Feb 18, 2022
WE OFFER THE BROADEST SELECTION AND MOST INNOVATIVE KNEE WALKERS/KNEE SCOOTERS
Knee Walkers are a medical mobility device (also referred to as Knee Scooters or Mobility Scooters) that provide a safe, comfortable, and easy-to-maneuver alternative to crutches for those recovering from below the knee injury or surgery, which requires the foot and/or leg to be non-weight bearing during recovery.
Knee Walkers are designed for weight-bearing relief for those who have injuries that include: fractures, diabetic wounds/ulcers, torn Achilles’ tendon, sprained ankles, or surgery to the foot/ankle. They can also be used for partial or complete amputations of the foot for permanent mobility, or while waiting for the wound to heal and/or fitting of a prosthesis.
Knee Walkers utilize an elevated padded platform to rest the knee on and provide continuous support for your injured lim. This design enables the user to balance naturally using two legs, versus just one like crutches force you to do. You then move yourself by pushing off with your good leg and steer the unit by turning the handle bar to control the direction of the front wheels. Your injured leg will remain elevated and fully non-weight bearing during operation.
KNEE WALKERS HELP YOU RECOVER WHILE REMAINING ACTIVE AND MOBILE
Prior to the invention of knee walkers, patients had no choice but to limit activity during their recovery period and use crutches or a wheelchair when necessary. These options make it challenging for you to move freely and go about your daily routine. When using crutches, your arms are supporting your body weight and your arms and upper back are used for mobility. On a knee walker, the larger muscles of your legs are leveraged to support your body as the wheels role and you move freely.
Using these larger muscles means less upper body pain, less fatigue for your body, and less chance of re-injury should you lose balance and put your injured leg on the ground. Another benefit of knee walkers over crutches is the ability to be hands free while standing still – this enables the user to accomplish many daily tasks at home, at work or on the go.
Modern knee walkers have handle bars and hand brakes like a bicycle that allow the user to easily steer, navigate and stop. They also typically have the ability to fold down for easy transport. Some models, like many of the Elenker® branded knee walkers, include a basket with purchase. There are many different sizes and specifications, so it is important to get measured and to read the specs carefully to ensure that you choose the model that is best for you.
