Walker Repair

A walker or walking frame is a mobility tool used for disabled people who need additional support to maintain their balance or stability while walking. Walkers were first used starting in the early 1950s, mostly among people with age-related physical restrictions. The first patent for a medical walker in the United Kingdom was established in 1953 and was called a “walking aid.” Two walker models with wheels were awarded U.S. patents in 1957, and the first non-wheeled “walker” was patented in 1965.

Walkers generally consist of a lightweight frame that is about waist-high on the user, approximately 12 inches deep, and slightly wider than the user. Walker models are commonly available in other sizes such as pediatric walkers (for children) or bariatric walkers (for overweight people). Most walkers are height-adjustable and should be set at a height that allows the user to maintain a slight bend in their arms (the bend ensures proper blood circulation through the users’ arms). Depending on the strength and abilities of the user, the front legs of the walker may include wheels. Some models also include caster wheels or glides (often felt products or tennis balls) on the back legs for easier use on hard floors.

The user should walk with the walker’s frame surrounding their front and sides and their hands providing additional support by holding the top of the frame’s sides. Most users pick up and place their walker a short distance ahead of them, then walk to it and repeat the process. With walkers including glides and wheels, the user can push the walker rather than picking it up.

• Wikipedia: Walker
• Wikipedia: Mobility Aid
• Walker Mobility Products for Sale