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DISCLAIMER:
Whilst all care is taken to provide accurate information with respect to the item described, the Independent Living Centre (ILC) is not involved in product design or manufacture, and therefore not in a position to guarantee the accuracy of the information provided. Selection of equipment, which is both suitable and appropriate for individual needs remains the responsibility of the person(s) considering requisition, and no responsibility is taken by the ILC for any loss or injury caused through use of the equipment or alleged to have arisen through reliance upon information provided. As information is subject to change any enquiries should be directed to the manufacturer.



Item Details

A Guide To Selecting A Rigid Walking Frame

ILC Reference NO 42:11:999
Item sourced from ILC WA database


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Short Description
This guide provides general information to assist in the selection of a rigid walking frame.

Walking aids are used by a variety of people for different reasons including:
- those recovering from injuries relating to partial to complete non weight bearing through the injured limb.
- people with reduced balance, strength or endurance when walking.
- people with pain or instability in any weight bearing joint used in walking.

It is important that the correct walking aid is selected to suit an individuals abilities and personal requirements.

The Independent Living Centre recommends that you seek the advice of a physiotherapist in the selection, fitting and in learning the correct use of any walking aid.


Price Guide
Refer to supplier details for pricing

More Details
Walking frames provide a large base of support and are useful for those requiring extra stability. Static walking frames reduce weight bearing through the legs and assist with balance. It should be noted that static frames disrupt the normal gait pattern and other walking aids should be considered first.

The walking frame should be fitted to the correct height to obtain maximum benefit and to maintain posture. The adjustable height models use a push pin adjustment to select the appropriate height.


Models / Styles
STANDARD WALKING FRAMES
These styles have two hand grips attached to the frame. The angle of the hand grips can differ between different manufacturers.

FOREARM SUPPORT WALKING FRAMES
These styles of walking frames provide extra stability for the trunk and upper body. Standard models have two pivoting castors at the front and two glides at the rear and are often used in gait training.


Options
HAND GRIPS
Some frames can have alternative hand grips attached including a contoured hand grip which distributes the pressure evenly on the hand when used.

CASTORS
Most standard frames can be converted to a mobile walking frame (or "rollator") by removing the front extension legs and replacing them with small extension legs with castors fitted. These castors can be either fixed direction (ie. will travel forward / backward only) or swivel.

A frame with two castors at the front and two ferrules or rubbers at the rear is easy to push and less disruptive to normal gait. This also overcomes problems of the user lifting the frame.

CARRY BAGS
Carry bags made from net or material can be fitted to the frame to assist with carrying light weight items.


Australian And Other Standards
For some types of equipment, specific Australian Standards are applicable to the materials used in, and the manufacturing and installation of products. Compliance with relevant Standards is indicated by written certification that a product has been tested and assessed as compliant with specified Australian Standards. Purchasers are advised to check with the supplier or manufacturer of an item as to its compliance with the relevant Australian Standard(s).

Further Sources Of Information
Walking Aids. Karcz, J. Independent Living magazine. August 1998

For further advice and for specific product information please contact the Independent Living Centre of WA.


Supplier Information - click to supplier for contacts details
IDEA ONLY,   ,

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